We synthesized a series of anionic narrow band gap self-doped conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPE) with the same p�conjugated backbone, but with different counterions and lengths of alkyl chains. These materials were doped to provide air-stable conductive materials. Relevant thermoelectric properties, including electrical conductivity and thermopower were measured and compared. The sizes of the counterions have a significant impact on electrical conductivity, but not on thermopowers. CPEs with different lengths of alkyl chains favor different orientations on the substrates, which are investigated by grazing incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering (GIWAXS). These studies not only show a relevant new class of materials for thermoelectric applications and studies, but also introduce a novel approach to optimize thermoelectric performance by structural modifications.

Tuning thermoelectric properties of conjugated polyelectrolytes via structural modifications

248th National Meeting (2014)

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