Conjugated polymers based on selenophene building blocks

Abstract The intrinsic flexibility, solution processability, and optoelectronic properties of semiconducting conjugated polymers make them ideal candidates for use in a wide range next-generation electronic devices. A virtually unlimited chemical design space has led to diverse polymeric architectures made from combinations smaller molecular building blocks with desirable functionalities. Of these, thiophene is undoubtedly the most common due its mixture synthetic versatility, polymer backbone planarizing effects, good characteristics. However, success meant that other heterocycles, such as selenophene, remain relatively underexplored. This focus review discusses challenges material advantages incorporating selenophene into systems within context our contributions field. early studies poorly performing electrochemically synthesized polyselenophenes are outlined, progressing onto model chemically alkylated homopolymers revealed key consequences addition. We then various donor donor-acceptor copolymer strategies have exploited selenium atom enhance performance solar cells, transistors, organic Finally, we give perspective on state field fundamental optimization required realize full potential selenophene-containing polymers.