Innovative materials and applications based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) and ionic liquids

The combination of ionic liquids (ILs) and conducting polymers is a topic of current interest due to the significant advances observed in applications such as optoelectronics, actuators and energy storage. Among conducting polymers, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) has emerged as the most promising due to its high chemical stability, high conductivity and high transparency. The unique characteristics of ionic liquids like ionic conductivity, solvent and ordering capabilities, thermal stability and low melting point (often below room temperature) can complement the characteristics of PEDOT and so favour the development of advanced materials and applications. This article features recent research progress in the design of innovative materials based on PEDOT modified or functionalized with ionic liquids. Recent applications of these materials in different fields are finally summarized.