"Transparency" could spawn new industries

The first example of an entirely new class of materials which could be used to make transparent transistors that are inexpensive, stable, and environmentally benign has been reported by researchers at Oregon State University, Corvallis, and Hewlett-Packard. This could lead to new industries and a broad range of consumer products, scientists say.

The possibilities include electronic devices produced so cheaply they almost could be one-time "throw away" products, better large-area electronics such as flat panel screens, or flexible electronics that could be folded up for ease of transport. Findings about this new class of "thin-film" materials, which are called amorphous heavy-metal cation multicomponent oxides, represent a significant breakthrough in the emerging field of transparent electronics.

The transistors not only are transparent, but could have other advantages that will help them transcend carbon-based transistor materials, such as organics and polymers, that have been the focus of hundreds of millions of dollars of research around the world. "Compared to organic or polymer transistor materials, these new inorganic oxides have higher mobility, better chemical stability, ease of manufacture, and are physically more robust," explains John Wager, professor of electrical and computer engineering. "Oxide-based transistors in many respects are already further along than organics or polymers are after many years of research, and this may blow some of them right out of the water.

"Frankly, until now, no one ever believed we could get this type of electronic performance out of transparent oxide transistors processed at low temperatures. They may be so effective that there will be many uses which don't even require transparency; they are just a better type of transistor, cheap and easy to produce."

Private industry already is beginning to identify applications for these materials. The sensors are used extensively in automotive and other mechanical devices, and the zinc-tin oxide transistors might allow the creation of a new type of gas sensor whose sensitivity is controlled electronically over a wide dynamic range. In the field of transparent applications, meanwhile, there should be uses in consumer electronics, transportation, business, and the military. Automobile windshields could transmit visual information. Glass in almost any setting could double as an electronic device, possibly improving security systems or transparent displays. The military is extremely interested in research of this type because of possible uses in sophisticated technology or fighting equipment. Liquid crystal displays could be improved. New types of copy machines may be created. Better solar cells are possible.

"One other thing that comes to mind is games and toys," Wager suggests. "It's not unusual for the creators of innovative game products to be the first people to implement a new technology. Some of the first illustrations we've seen of the things you could do with transparent electronics have been in science fiction movies that show futuristic types of computer equipment. Some of those things, which were basically special effects produced by Hollywood, may soon become a reality."

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