PHOTOCONTROLLED SYNTHESIS OF PI-CONJUGATED POLYMERS
Abstract
pi-Conjugated polymers combine the processability and low density of plastics with semiconducting and conducting properties. Importantly, their properties can be rationally tuned by molecular design. Conventional and catalyst-transfer polycondensations used to prepare conjugated polymers have been extensively optimized over years of study to deliver broad scope and high molecular weights. However, relying solely on traditional cross-coupling mechanisms limits the chemical diversity of polymers that are produced, and introduces transition metals that compromise device performance and stability. Distinct mechanisms present the opportunity to access distinct targets and study their properties. This proposal describes the development and application of a controlled polymerization driven by light for the synthesis of ?-conjugated polymers. The mechanism of this photopolymerization is best suited to n-type polymers and enables the synthesis of all-conjugated block copolymers through wavelength-selective chain extension. We will use our mechanistic insight into this polymerization to expand its scope and improve its control, offering access to acceptor-rich alternating and block copolymers, as well as polymers with antiaromatic character. We will explore the structure-property relationships for block copolymers accessed by this method as organic mixed ionic-electronic conductors and as triplet materials.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 20, 2023
- Source ID
- FA95502210421
Entities
People
- Julia A Kalow
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Northwestern University
- United States Air Force