Organic Semiconductors for Solution‐Processable Field‐Effect Transistors (OFETs)

TLDR

Solution‑processable organic semiconductors enable cost‑effective production of flexible electronics, with soluble materials for OFETs prioritized for high mobility, low threshold voltage, and high on/off ratio, while crystalline forms offer higher mobilities but amorphous films provide simpler processing. The study focuses on soluble oligoacenes, oligo‑ and polythiophenes (and their copolymers), and oligo‑ and polytriarylamines as key material classes for solution‑processable OFETs.

Abstract

Abstract The cost‐effective production of flexible electronic components will profit considerably from the development of solution‐processable, organic semiconductor materials. Particular attention is focused on soluble semiconductors for organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs). The hitherto differentiation between “small molecules” and polymeric materials no longer plays a role, rather more the ability to process materials from solution to homogeneous semiconducting films with optimal electronic properties (high charge‐carrier mobility, low threshold voltage, high on/off ratio) is pivotal. Key classes of materials for this purpose are soluble oligoacenes, soluble oligo‐ and polythiophenes and their respective copolymers, and oligo‐ and polytriarylamines. In this context, micro‐ or nanocrystalline materials have the general advantage of somewhat higher charge‐carrier mobilities, which, however, could be offset in the case of amorphous, glassy materials by simpler and more reproducible processing.