Design of Linear and Star-Shaped Macromolecular Organic Semiconductors for Photonic Applications

• DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.9b00129
• Publication Date: 2019-05-28T11:47:24Z
• Authors: Alexander L. Kani...; Nicolas Laurand; Martin D. Dawson; Graham A. Turnbull; Ifor D. W. Samuel; Peter J. Skabara
• Keywords: Chemistry; Chemistry(all); Physics; NDAS; QD; General Chemistry; 540; QD Chemistry; 01 natural sciences; QC; 0104 chemical sciences

ConspectusOne of the most desirable and advantageous attributes organic materials chemistry is ability to tune molecular structure achieve targeted physical properties. This can be performed specific values for ionization potential or electron affinity material, absorption emission characteristics, charge transport properties, phase behavior, solubility, processability, many other which in turn help push limits performance semiconductor devices. A striking example make subtle structural changes a conjugated macromolecule vary properties generic chemical structure.In this Account, we demonstrate that target photonic applications achieved from different types structures, namely, monodisperse star-shaped molecules, complex linear macromolecules, polymers. The appropriate material any single application inevitably demands consideration trade-off various properties; focus on such as lasers, electrogenerated chemiluminescence, hybrid light emitting diodes, visible communications. In terms synthesis, atom step economies are also important. structures consist core unit with 3 4 functional connection points, attached oligomers varying length composition. strategy follows convergent synthetic pathway allows isolation macromolecules good yield, high purity, absolute reproducibility. It versatile approach, providing wide choice constituent units therefore while products share Constructing multifunctionality lead routes lower economies, inferior thermal stability, but these designed provide range Conventional polymers, third type structure, often feature so-called "champion" challenge mainly concerned monomer final polymerization sequence hard control, leading variable weights polydispersities some degree inconsistency same between batches. If champion characteristic persists samples, then variation batches tolerable, depending application. case have chosen study PPV-type polymers bulky side groups protection their backbone π–π stacking interactions. These exhibit photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) films short radiative lifetimes an important benchmark systems absorption/emission regions. Account outlines advantages special features considers two alternative classes highlights pros cons each class structure.