Daido Steel Co., Ltd. has developed the sputtering target "STARMESHTM-β1" for blackening laye , which has low reflectance and excellent discoloration resistance for metal-mesh electrode-based touch panels .
The blackening layer deposited by sputtering with "STARMESHTM-β1" can suppress the reflectance of the copper (Cu) conductive layer down to 10-20%. In addition, this blacking layer does not show any conduction change or color change in environmental tests ( temperature 85°C, humidity 85%, 1000 hours) assuming electronic components for automobiles.
Therefore, compared with conventional blackening layer of copper oxide (CuO), it can be used in harsh environments and the life of applicable products can be extended.
Furthermore, since "STARMESHTM-β1" does not content rare metals such as indium, it contributes to cost down, comparison to ceramic-based ITO (indium tin oxide) used for the transparent conductive thin films of touch panels.
And also, the leftover of "STARMESHTM-β1" is easily recycled by our re-melting technology.
It is going to expand the sputtering target business for touch panels of large size screens used in vehicles and electronic blackboards, which are expected to grow in the future.