Low Band-Gap Conjugated Polymers: Poly(Thienylene Vinylene) and Poly(Substituted Thienylene Vinylenes)

Abstract

The electrochemical and optical properties of several heteroaromatic vinylene polymers including poly(2,5-thienylene vinylene) (PTV), and derivatives have been determined. These polymers possess the desired properties of processibility, environmental stability, and high conductivity in the doped form. Optical data and cyclic voltammetry show that by suitable substitution these conjugated polymers can have very low band-gaps and ionization potentials. The synthesis, characterization and properties of these polymers will be discussed.