Asymmetric Semiconducting Polymers; Electronic and Mechanical Properties in Organic Electronics

Semiconducting polymers (SPs) are at the forefront of the next generation of organic electronics. They enable seamless integration into various biological and industrial applications. SPs can be engineered to be mechanically compliant and soft, giving them an advantage over silicon-based electronics. Their electronic and solid-state properties also make them promising candidates for emerging organic electronics. Our group recently developed novel asymmetric polyisoindigo polymers. These polymers were found to be more soluble in non-chlorinated solvents. Furthermore, a comprehensive multimodal characterization revealed intriguing electronic and solid-state properties. However, the original design strategy suffered from low yields and challenges in controlling material asymmetry, hindering large-scale synthesis. Additionally, the impact of chain asymmetry on material properties remained not fully understood. To address these challenges, this work will develop a customizable design strategy for asymmetric SPs. We will create a library of asymmetric polymers and control the nanoscale structure of thin film polymers, ultimately improving their electronic and mechanical properties for organic electronics. This collaborative effort draws upon our group’s expertise in materials synthesis and the collaborator’s experience in polymer characterization. The new materials developed will contribute to the advancement of electronics and related applications, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional electronic manufacturing methods.

Faculty Supervisor:

Simon Rondeau-Gagné

Student:

Partner:

University of Southern Mississippi

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Nanotechnology; Advanced Manufacturing; Technology

University:

University of Windsor

Program: