Process for Preparing Conductive Films and Articles Prepared Using the Process

Abstract

A free standing film includes: i. a matrix layer having opposing surfaces, and ii. an array of nanorods, where the nanorods are oriented to pass through the matrix layer and protrude an average distance of at least 1 micrometer through one or both surfaces of the matrix layer. A method for preparing the free standing film includes (a) providing an array of nanorods on a substrate, optionally (b) infiltrating the array with a sacrificial layer, (c) infiltrating the array with a matrix layer, thereby producing an infiltrated array, optionally (d) removing the sacrificial layer without removing the matrix layer, when step (b) is present, and (e) removing the infiltrated array from the substrate to form the free standing film. The free standing film is useful as an optical filter, ACF, or TIM, depending on the type and density of nanorods selected.

1 . A free standing film comprising:
 i. a matrix layer having opposing surfaces, and   ii. an array of nanorods, where the nanorods are oriented to pass through the matrix layer and protrude an average distance of at least 1 micrometer through one or both surfaces of the matrix layer.   
     
     
         2 . The free standing film of  claim 1 , where the array has an average density ranging from 0.5 vol % to 50 vol %. 
     
     
         3 . The free standing film of  claim 1 , where the nanorods have an average height ranging from 5 to 500 micrometers. 
     
     
         4 . Use of the free standing film of any one of  claims 1  to  3  as an optical filter.