Insulated Polythiophene: Self-Threaded Conjugated Polymer via Alkyl Chain Straps

Polythiophenes are a popular class of organic conducting polymers, known for their environmental stability, conductivity [1], fluorescence and electroluminescent properties [2]. Conducting polymers, such as polythiophenes, have enormous potential in both static and dynamic applications, ranging from field-effect transistors and diodes to chemical sensors [3]. Many applications require the use of conducting polymers in the solid phase, which presents a painful trade off between high and low density deposition. High density deposition allows for easier charge injection as well as greater overall charge density, luminescence and conductivity. Unfortunately, inter-molecular interactions between uninsulated conducting polymers in the solid phase result in imprecise band gap control (mainly due to π-π stacking), crosstalk between threads, and quenching (lower florescent and electroluminescent quantum yield). While low density deposition can often alleviate these problems, it is often impractical. By inhibiting undesired inter-molecular interactions, insulated conducting polymers offer a solution; ideally, allowing for high density deposition with better band gap control and little/no loss in quantum yield [4]. In this study, we seek to develop an intramolecular bi-thiophene rotaxane with minimal degradation of the conductive, fluorescent and electroluminescent properties of bi-thiophene. The intramolecular bi-thiophene rotaxane must also be suitable for polymerization and use in the solid phase.