Transparent electrodes are essential in optoelectronic devices. With the advent of new optoelectronic devices with multiple functionalities, it is increasingly important to develop transparent electrodes matching those new requirements. Transparent electrodes can be fabricated using transparent conductive oxides (TCO) or nanostructures of other materials such as metals. Indeed, although metals absorb light, their absorption can be reduced to practical levels while preserving their conductive behaviour by suitably producing them as nanowires or ultrathin layers. In this review paper, Yong-Bum Park et al. provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on ultrathin metal films used as flexible transparent conductors.

The article discusses methods for producing ultrathin metal films with the desired properties, including deposition techniques, surface treatments, and post-processing methods. This with the goal of achieving film morphology engineering to improve simultaneously electrical conductivity, optical transmittance, and mechanical flexibility. The authors also present various methodologies, including characterization and modelling used to evaluate the properties of these electrodes.

Although there have been significant advances in this field, there are ample opportunities for further research to improve the performance and stability of ultrathin metal films as transparent conductors. Development of new materials, optimizing or developing new fabrication processes, and widenning or further tuning the transparency window of these electrodes are just some of the research opportunities presented.

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