Efficient Sorting of Semiconducting Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes in Bio‐Renewable Solvents Through Main‐Chain Engineering of Conjugated Polymers

Abstract

AbstractConjugated polymer sorting is recognized as an efficient and scalable method for the selective extraction of semiconducting single‐walled carbon nanotubes (s‐SWCNTs). However, this process typically requires the use of nonpolar and aromatic solvents as the dispersion medium, which are petroleum‐based and carry significant production hazards. Moreover, there is still potential for improving the efficiency of batch purification. Here, this study presents fluorene‐based conjugated polymer that integrates diamines containing ethylene glycol chains (ODA) as linkers within the main chain, to effectively extract s‐SWCNTs in bio‐renewable solvents. The introduction of ODA segments enhances the solubility in bio‐renewable solvents, facilitating effective wrapping of s‐SWCNTs in polar environments. Additionally, the ODA within the main chain enhances affinity to s‐SWCNTs, thereby contributing to increased yields and purity. The polymer achieves a high sorting yield of 55% and a purity of 99.6% in dispersion of s‐SWCNTs in 2‐Methyltetrahydrofuran. Thin‐film transistor arrays fabricated with sorted s‐SWCNTs solution through slot‐die coating exhibit average charge carrier mobilities of 20–23 cm2 V⁻¹ s⁻¹ and high on/off current ratios exceeding 105 together with high spatial uniformity. This study highlights the viability of bio‐renewable solvents in the sorting process, paving the way for the eco‐friendly approach to the purification of SWCNTs.