Controlled Pattern Formation of Poly[2-methoxy-5-(2′-ethylhexyloxyl)–1,4-phenylenevinylene] (MEH–PPV) by Ink-Jet Printing
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Tekin, Emine; Holder, Elisabeth; Kozodaev, Dimitri; Schubert, Ulrich S.
- Abstract:
- A detailed survey on the processing of poly[2-methoxy-5-(2′-ethylhexyloxyl)–1,4-phenylenevinylene] (MEH–PPV) solutions
via ink-jet printing and the subsequent characterization of the resulting films is reported. The printability of MEH–PPV dissolved
in different solvents, and with varied concentrations, is studied. Limitations of the printability of highly concentrated
polymer solutions are overcome by using ultrasonication. The pattern formation of the resulting lines is explained in relation to
the contact angle formed by the MEH–PPV solution on the substrate and interchain interactions. Auniform thickness distribution
of MEH–PPV films is obtained when toluene is used as the solvent. Further improvement on the surface quality of the
lines is achieved by optimizing the printing parameters. The line stability as a function of the print-head velocity is also studied.
Additionally, current–voltage (I–V) characteristics and the morphology of the MEH–PPV films, as determined by atomic force
microscopy, are discussed.
- Year:
- 2007
- Type of Publication:
- Article
- Journal:
- Advanced Functional Materials
- Volume:
- 17
- Pages:
- 277 - 284