Controlling the end-groups of Poly(3-Hexylthiophene) via Vilsmeier-Haack reaction

Abstract

π-Conjugated oligomeric and polymeric semiconductors have been the focus of intense research over the past few decades as alternatives to inorganic semiconductors for low-cost electronic applications such as organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs), light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and photovoltaics (OPVs). These materials enable vapor- or solution-phase fabrication of large-area, lightweight electronic devices and are compatible with plastic substrates for mechanically flexible, conformable, and wearable electronics. In this research, we aim at modification of the H/Br end groups of poly (3-hexylthiophene) to CHO/Br end groups via Vilsmeier-haack reaction using POCl₃ and DMF as the catalytic system in toluene medium. The end groups of the obtained polymer were determined via FT-IR spectroscopy and were further confirmed by Maldi-ToF. The result showed that completion of the Vilsmeier-haack reaction was obtained after 24 h at 75 °C.