Issue 7, 2010

Star-shaped π-conjugated oligomers and their applications in organic electronics and photonics

Abstract

Strategies for the design and construction of non-linear, 2D and 3D conjugated macromolecules are presented in this critical review. The materials, termed here as star-shaped structures, feature a core unit which may or may not provide conjugated links between arms that radiate like spokes from a central axle. The arms of the macromolecules consist of linear oligomers or irregular conjugated chains lacking a formal repeat unit. The cores range from simple atoms to single or fused aromatic units and can provide a high level of symmetry to the overall structure. The physical properties of the star-shaped materials can be markedly different to their simple, linear conjugated analogues. These differences are highlighted and we report on anomalies in absorption/emission characteristics, electronic energy levels, thermal properties and morphology of thin films. We provide numerous examples for the application of star-shaped conjugated macromolecules in organic semiconductor devices; a comparison of their device performance with those comprising analogous linear systems provides clear evidence that the star-shaped compounds are an important class of material in organic electronics. Moreover, these structures are monodisperse, well-defined, discrete molecules with 100% synthetic reproducibility, and possess high purity and excellent solubility in common organic solvents. They feature many of the attributes of plastic materials (good film-forming properties, thermal stability, flexibility) and are therefore extremely attractive alternatives to conjugated polymers (210 references).

Graphical abstract: Star-shaped π-conjugated oligomers and their applications in organic electronics and photonics

Article information

Article type
Critical Review
Submitted
09 Apr 2010
First published
02 Jun 2010

Chem. Soc. Rev., 2010,39, 2695-2728

Star-shaped π-conjugated oligomers and their applications in organic electronics and photonics

A. L. Kanibolotsky, I. F. Perepichka and P. J. Skabara, Chem. Soc. Rev., 2010, 39, 2695 DOI: 10.1039/B918154G

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