A Holistic Review of C = C Crosslinkable Conjugated Molecules in Solution‐Processed Organic Electronics: Insights into Stability, Processibility, and Mechanical Properties

Abstract

AbstractSolution‐processable organic conjugated molecules (OCMs) consist of a series of aromatic units linked by σ‐bonds, which present a relatively freedom intramolecular motion and intermolecular re‐arrangement under external stimulation. The cross‐linked strategy provides an effective platform to obtain OCMs network, which allows for outstanding optoelectronic, excellent physicochemical properties, and substantial improvement in device fabrication. An unsaturated double carbon–carbon bond (C = C) is universal segment to construct crosslinkable OCMs. In this review, the authors will set C = C cross‐linkable units as an example to summarize the development of cross‐linkable OCMs for solution‐processable optoelectronic applications. First, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the distinctive chemical, physical, and optoelectronic properties arising from the cross‐linking strategies employed in OCMs. Second, the methods for probing the C = C cross‐linking reaction are also emphasized based on the perturbations of chemical structure and physicochemical property. Third, a series of model C = C cross‐linkable units, including styrene, trifluoroethylene, and unsaturated acid ester, are further discussed to design and prepare novel OCMs. Furthermore, a concise overview of the optoelectronic applications associated with this approach is presented, including light‐emitting diodes (LEDs), solar cells (SCs), and field‐effect transistors (FETs). Lastly, the authors offer a concluding perspective and outlook for the improvement of OCMs and their optoelectronic application via the cross‐linking strategy.