Surfaces and interfaces of luminescent polymer mixed ionic/electronic conductors

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Surfaces and interfaces of luminescent polymer mixed ionic/electronic conductors Our interdisciplinary research program focuses on polymer mixed ionic/electronic conductors (MIECs) composed of luminescent conjugated polymers and solid polymer electrolytes. In our Laboratory of Organic Photonics and Iontronics (LOPI), we fabricate various sample structures from scratch, and perform electrical transport, optical imaging, voltammetry, spectroscopy and modelling studies to better understand electrochemical doping and its dramatic effect on the electronic structures and optical properties of luminescent CPs. By introducing bipolar electrodes into the polymer MIEC, we pioneered an inter-disciplinary field of research, solid-state bipolar electrochemistry rich in unexplored surface and interface sciences. Our long-term vision for MIECs is a class of high performance, low-cost, printed devices enabled by a deep understanding of the complex material system. MIECs derived from polymers, organic small molecules, ionic transition metal complexes, or perovskites are emerging materials with potential applications in light-emitting devices, photovoltaic solar cells, transistors and energy storage. Polymer MIECs are particularly attractive because they have the mechanical and processing advantages of polymers as well as being optically and electrically interesting. In its most useful form, the polymer MIEC is electrochemically p- and n-doped in situ to form a light-emitting polymer p-n junction that can also produce a photovoltaic response when the ions are immobilized by cooling. By discharging a doped MIEC, electrical energy can be extracted. The proposed research aims to fill the knowledge gaps that still exist in polymer MIECs and MIEC-based devices such as the light-emitting electrochemical cells. The short-term objectives are to develop a thorough understanding of (1) the frozen polymer p-n junction in its doping concentration, conductivity profile, electronic structure, electroluminescent properties and transient response; (2) the interfacial phenomena between a luminescent conjugated polymer and a solid polymer electrolyte; and (3) the dramatic effects of bipolar electrodes and bipolar electrode arrays on doping and junction formation. Our long-term research goal works towards designing more efficient and long-lasting MIECs by answering the fundamental questions about MIEC surfaces and interfaces. To carry out the proposed research, we will leverage our 20 plus years of research experience in the relevant fields, state-of-the-art facilities, innovative research methodology and techniques, and excellence in HQP training. The proposed research will train undergraduate and graduate researchers on highly valuable technical, communication, and leadership skills that will prepare them for a successful career in academia or the high-tech industry.