A water-processable n-type polymeric ink with conductivities exceeding 1,000 S cm−1

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Authors: Qifan Li, Tiefeng Liu, Junda Huang, Ze-Fan Yao, Dace Gao, Qingqing Wang, Junpeng Ji, Miao Xiong, Liu Xianjie, Sang Young Jeong, Min Gyu Kang, Han-Yan Wu
+4 more C.-L. Yang, Han Young Woo, Mats Fahlman, Simone Fabiano
Cited by: 3
References: 68

Abstract

High-performance n-type conducting polymers remain scarce, with most requiring toxic and/or hazardous solvents for processing. Here, we report a water-processable poly(benzodifurandione) (PBFDO) ink that achieves conductivities up to 1,400 S cm −1 , the highest reported for n-type conjugated polymers from green solvents. The use of long-tailed amphiphilic zwitterions to stabilize the PBFDO nanoparticles creates a hydrophobic interfacial barrier that also suppresses oxidative side reactions (de-doping) with oxygen and water, resulting in aqueous dispersions that are stable for over 160 days. This molecular-level control preserves structural order in cast films, enabling sustainable and scalable fabrication of thin films with a remarkable power factor of 184 μW m −1 K −2 —among the largest for water-processed n-type polymers—highlighting their potential for high-performance thermoelectrics. By combining exceptional electronic performance, long-term stability, and sustainable processing, this work paves the way for environment-friendly, scalable manufacturing of next-generation organic electronic and energy-harvesting devices.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Conducting polymers and applications Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials Organic Electronics and Photovoltaics

Publication details

Journal / source
Matter
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
9
Issue
3
Pages
102599–102599
Publication date
5 February 2026
Language
EN