Novel approaches to enhance electrical conductivity of nanoscale PEDOT: PSS layers

This investigation expands on our earlier work to increase PEDOT:PSS (P-S) electrical conductivity. We explore a variety of methods, such as the use of mono- and multi-atomic layer graphene, the deposition of multiple P-S layers, doping with metal nanoparticles (Ag and Cu), and acid treatment. According to our research, P-S multilayers can be optimally deposited and treated with nitric acid to get better outcomes than those obtained using graphene and metal nanoparticles. When compared to the employment of graphene layers and metal nanoparticles, this optimized method not only improves the electrical conductivity of P-S but also has benefits in terms of cost-effectiveness, greater stability, and decreased mistakes. To achieve these results, optimization parameters including etching time, etchant concentration, and spin speed are essential. In comparison to single-layer P-S of the same thickness, the optimized multilaminar P-S treated with nitric acid results in a significant drop in sheet resistance from over 1 MΩ/sq to 6.85 Ω/sq, which translates to electrical conductivity of 0.17 S/cm to 15,701 S/cm, respectively. In order to reduce dependability problems brought on by environmental factors, we also manage lamina aging.