Hybrid of Conjugated Polymers with Incorporation of Metal Oxide Nanocomposites for Improving Optoelectronic Properties

Herein, the incorporation of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs), SiO2 NPs, and their nanocomposite (STNC) to enhance the optoelectronic properties of the hybrid of poly[9,9 '-di-n-octylfluorenyl-2,7-diyl] (F8), poly[2-methoxy-5(2-ethylhexyl)-1,4-phenylenevinylene)] (MEH-PPV), and poly[2-methoxy-5-(3,7-dimethyl-octyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene]-end capped with dimethylphenyl (MDMO-PPV-DMP) are revealed. The tune of the donor (F8) conjugated length can be detected from the red shift in absorption spectra when TiO2 NPs and SiO2 NPs are added, as well as an increase in emission intensity of the donor. The addition of acceptors (MEH-PPV or MDMO-PPV-DMP) to the donor results in a new absorption peak at 510 nm, which increases when TiO2 NPs and SiO2 NPs or STNC are incorporated into the ternary hybrid. The incorporation of STNC into F8 is anticipated to reduce the donor energy bandgap and improve the energy transfer from F8 to both acceptors. Moreover, Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) is improved in the ternary hybrid, as evidenced by enhanced emission spectra of the donor and both acceptors, increased broadness of photoluminescence excitation spectra, and shifting blue color toward white region. The ternary hybrid with STNC-based organic light-emitting diode shows superior current and turn-on voltage compared to other devices, which is likely due to its superior FRET.

Automated summary

The incorporation of TiO2 nanoparticles, SiO2 nanoparticles, and their nanocomposite (STNC) into a hybrid polymer improves its optoelectronic properties. The addition of TiO2 and SiO2 nanoparticles to the donor polymer results in a red shift in absorption spectra and an increase in emission intensity. The addition of acceptor polymers and STNCs further enhances the absorption and improves energy transfer. The ternary hybrid with STNC-based organic light-emitting diode demonstrates superior current performance and lower turn-on voltage, attributed to improved Forster resonance energy transfer.