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Light-emitting polymer semiconductors in flexible electronics: strategies, challenges and future perspective
Xiang An1, Wenyu Chen1, Zhiyang Sun1
1State Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (LoFE) & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Flexible Electronics (Future Technologies), Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech) 30 South Puzhu Road Nanjing 211816 China iamxiangan@njtech.edu.cn iamjylin@njtech.edu.cn vc@nwpu.edu.cn.
Researchers review strategies for flexible light-emitting polymer semiconductors (LPSs) to improve stretchable electronics. Key challenges remain in balancing properties and material compatibility for advanced applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Organic Electronics
Background:
- Light-emitting polymer semiconductors (LPSs) are crucial for flexible electronics like wearable displays.
- A fundamental conflict exists between the mechanical flexibility required for stretchable applications and the optoelectronic performance dictated by rigid structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review recent advancements in strategies addressing the flexibility-performance trade-off in LPSs.
- To categorize and analyze approaches for creating stretchable and efficient light-emitting films.
Main Methods:
- Review of intrinsic flexibility engineering (backbone/side-chain modifications).
- Analysis of external plasticization using small-molecule additives.
- Examination of elastomer blending techniques.
Main Results:
- Identified three primary strategies: intrinsic flexibility engineering, external plasticization, and elastomer blending.
- Highlighted the merits and limitations of each approach in achieving desired film properties.
- Noted persistent challenges in property balance, phase separation, and interfacial defects.
Conclusions:
- Future LPS development requires deeper understanding of structure-property relationships.
- Innovation in functionally elastic and recoverable materials is essential.
- Overcoming current hurdles will enable high-performance, durable flexible electronic systems.
