Thin-films of semi-conducting polymers, which are used in the production of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices, are commonly prepared by a spin coating method. The performance of these films is highly dependent on their final morphology; however understanding and exercising control over the formation of film morphologies has previously been challenging.
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In this hot paper, Howse and co-workers used high speed stroboscopic fluorescence microscopy to observe directly the development of phase separated structures in poly(styrene) and poly(9,9’-dioctylfluorene) blends during the spin-coating process. Their feedback-modulated spin coating technique enabled unprecedented control over the thin-film morphology, and presents a route towards increased efficiency in the manufacture of LED and OPV devices.
J. Mater. Chem. A, 2013, 1, 3587-3592 DOI: 10.1039/C3TA01530K
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