The effect of the surface physical properties of polymer substrates on the adhesion and cracking of transparent conductive oxide (TCO) coatings

►The surface profiles of polymer substrates were proved to be deformed and penetrated by sputtered atoms. ►The relationship between the polymer substrate physical properties and the adhesion strength of ITO was explained. ►The mechanical properties of the polymer surfaces could be controlled by changing surface areas. ►Only the roughness of polymer substrates could be controlled excluding chemical changes.