Silver-Loaded Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks as Resin-Compatible Nanofillers for Embedded Capacitors with Improved Thermal and Electrical Performances

The application of embedded capacitors (ECs) has been a promising solution to the miniaturization and multifunctionalization of electronic devices. However, ECs still face challenges in the improvement of their dielectric properties. Here we report the fabrication of ECs by using silver-loaded zeolitic imidazolate frameworks [Ag@ZIF-8(Zn–Co)] as nanofillers for epoxy resin (ER). Dispersants are not required due to the compatibility between the Ag@ZIF-8(Zn–Co) nanoparticles (NPs) and ER. The fabricated ECs show increased glass transition temperatures (Tg) and thermal conductivities. The reduction of Ag+ ions inside the ZIF-8(Zn–Co) pores can create Schottky barriers with lowered band gaps and provide steric hindrances for the Ag NPs. Increased electrical conductivities and reduced conductive pathways can be achieved. The fabricated ECs show improved dielectric constants while restricting dielectric losses. The application of coordination polymer nanofillers with conductive metal NPs inside the pores can afford avenues toward advanced ECs.