Organophosphorus pi-conjugated materials for organic electronics

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The proposed research deals with the synthesis of novel functional molecules that can potentially be used in electronic devices, such as organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs) and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) for flat-panel displays as well as general lighting applications. Our research strategy uses the so-called 'bottom-up' approach, in which smart molecular materials and larger assemblies are constructed in a controlled fashion using atoms and molecular building blocks. The unique aspect of the program is the use of the element phosphorus that is incorporated into carbon-based, so-called organic molecules to assemble materials with electronic properties similar to those of silicon semiconductors. The presence of the phosphorus centers within the materials provides them with extraordinary features that include emission color, intensity and tunability. The targeted larger 'supramolecular' assemblies are furthermore intended to increase the efficiency of the materials by improving their light-harvesting capabilities using transition metals as integral components. One of the major advantages of the novel materials is their size. Organic electronic devices can be about 10 to 100 times smaller than the smallest silicon semiconductor devices and can be operated much more efficiently to consume much less power than established materials. Since sustainable energy conversion has become an important aspect of our daily lives, alternative ways to generate light of different colors, including white light, as well as energy efficient integrated circuits, are important aspects that can be accomplished with the new organophosphorus materials within this program. OLEDs are already well established in flat panel displays of digital cameras, cell phones and even TV sets, but can also be found in automotive parts such as dashboard illumination or back lights, and may replace more of the commonly established technologies completely in the near future.