Simultaneous realization of electromagnetic interference shielding, hydrophobic qualities, and strong antibacterial activity for transparent electronic devices

Al (3 at%)-doped ZnO (AZO)/Ag/AZO multilayer films annealed at 100 °C for 20 min under an oxygen atmosphere were examined for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, hydrophobic qualities, and antibacterial activity for use in transparent glass panels. The annealed AZO (45 nm)/Ag (9 nm)/AZO (45 nm)/glass multilayer films showed a high level of EMI shielding effectiveness in the Bluetooth frequency range (∼39 dB) and strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The annealed multilayer films demonstrated high levels of transmittance (∼90%) and conferred hydrophobic qualities to previously hydrophilic as-deposited films. •Strong electromagnetic interference shielding of AZO (45 nm)/Ag(9 nm)/AZO(45 nm) thin multilayer films.•Hydrophobic properties of multilayer films via a simple annealing treatment at 100 °C.•Strong antibacterial activity of the multilayer films.