Methods for delivering ITO substitutes

Indium tin oxide (ITO) is widely used for applications such as touch screens, displays, PV panels etc. However Indium is a Critical Raw Material in terms of scarcity and geographical dependence mainly from China, so the substitution of ITO is urgent. The MITOS project will combine research in several fields with novel scientific and technical approaches to address the requirements for successful replacement of ITO. The scientific advancements are located in the broader field of materials as well as on simulation and modeling. Advancements in methods and materials include (a) the development of new mixed oxides (binary or ternary) utilizing spray pyrolsis and combination of atomizaton- oxidation methods, (b) environmental friendly printable inks containing metal nanowires produced either by electrodeposition or chemical methods and (c) one step formation of thin oxide films via electroplating or electroless deposition. All the TC materials will present optimum optoelectonic properties in terms of high transparency and adjusted - to the application - sheet resistance. Significant role in the previous mentioned advancements will have the utilization of simulation and modelling tools in order to determine (a) suitable stoichiometries of the multi-component oxides and (b) optimum loading of metal nanowires in TC inks, targeting in the prediction of the desirable properties. The consortium will prove the concept by a series of demonstration activities where end user from various sectors will participate.