Devices comprising thin films having temperature-independent high electrical conductivity and methods of making same

Abstract

A polymer material comprising channels whose temperature-independent conductivity exceeds 106 S/cm is used to form conductive films and various devices containing such films. Conduction takes place through threads and channels passing through the film which is otherwise a dielectric. The film is produced by first depositing a macromolecular polymer substance on a substrate. During preparation, the substance is preferably in a viscous liquid state. Stable free electrons (polarons) are then created by ionizing the substance. This is assisted by exposure to UV radiation and the presence of strong polar groups in the polymer. Various enrichment techniques, such as applying a strong electric field, are then used to join the superpolarons together into conducting threads within the medium. To stabilize the positions of the threads, the medium is then solidified, preferably by cooling it below its glass transition point or inducing cross-linking between the macromolecules. The film may be a membrane. Devices incorporating these films include electrical interposers, thermoelectric devices, thermally insulating electrical connectors, pressure switches, field emission devices and fault current limiters. The films can also be used to protect conductors from chemical corrosion without electrically insulating them. They also find application as electromagnetic shielding, reflectors, and polarizers.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.