Synthesis and Properties of Novel Promising Semiconducting Polymers for Organic Electronics

Abstract

The main challenge today is to design and synthesize new polymeric semiconductors that can replace classical silicon, which is approaching its physical limits. This challenge is driven by three key demands: (1) the need for energy efficient materials, (2) the transition to nanoscale organic electronic devices, and (3) the creation of flexible, wearable, and biocompatible systems. Replacing small molecule materials with polymers is a crucial step for large area inkjet printing technologies, which are increasingly important for lightweight, low cost, and flexible electronics. Polymers offer distinct advantages over small molecules in printing, including better processability, enhanced environmental stability, and potential for scalable and cost effective manufacturing. These benefits enable the formation of high quality uniform thin films over large areas, which is essential for commercial applications [1]. This report presents the synthesis of new comb shaped polymers bearing benzothieno[3,2 b]benzothiophene (BTBT) moieties as side groups, along with a comparative analysis of their properties. The BTBT fragments impart unique electronic characteristics—extended conjugation length and improved charge transport capabilities. The innovative aspect lies in the design and synthesis of comb like architectures with pendant BTBT units, an approach that has not been extensively explored in the literature [2,3]. The molecular design aims to enhance both molecular ordering and π–π stacking interactions, thereby boosting charge mobility and device performance [4]. We systematically investigated the structural features, electronic properties, and the ability of these polymers to form ordered morphologies on substrates. The highest hole mobility reached 2 × 10⁻² cm² V⁻¹ s⁻¹ [5].

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References

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