The precursor polymer approach to electrodeposition and patterning of conjugated polymer ultrathin films

In this paper, we report strategies for electrodepositing and patterning ultrathin films of conjugated polymers on flat electrode surfaces using the precursor polymer approach. This involves a rational synthesis design of the precursor polymer followed by careful electrodeposition and characterization of ultrathin films on conducting substrates. This has resulted in the preparation of smooth, high optical quality films, which should be important for applications involving flat electrode surfaces in devices. Characterization was made using surface sensitive spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Copolymerization with monomers, polymer backbone design, and grafting on modified surfaces are key points in this strategy. Novel methods of in-situ characterization techniques have also been developed combing electrochemistry and surface plasmon resonance techniques.