Synthesis of PTV via the dithiocarbamate route, a new precursor route towards conjugated polymers

Abstract

A new precursor route towards conjugated polymers is presented. Whereas difficulties occurred for the preparation of poly(2,5-thienylene vinylene) (PTV) derivatives via the existing precursor routes, PTV has been synthesised via a new developed "dithiocarbamate route" in good yields and satisfactory molecular weight. Structural characterisations of the conjugated polymers reveal an optical band gap around 1.7 eV. Organic field effect transistors and organic based photovoltaic devices were made and the results are discussed. Solar cells were produced using a blend of the precursor polymer and PCBM at various ratios. The conversion of the precursor polymer towards the conjugated polymer was performed in situ in film spin-coated from the blend. Promising energy conversion efficiencies were observed which were still improved by thermal annealing of the device at 70degreesC.