Conductive polymers as transparent electrodes: structure, functional characteristics, preparation methods, applications
Abstract
This paper provides a comprehensive review and analysis of the current state and advancements in major transparent conducting polymers, which are considered promising alternatives to traditional transparent electrodes based on metal oxides, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO), and fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO). These polymers possess unique properties, including flexibility, light weight, and ease of integration into flexible and stretchable optoelectronic devices, making them highly attractive for use in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), thin-film transistors, solar cells, sensors, flexible displays, and a range of other applications. The paper presents publication statistics for this research area over the past 10 years based on data from the Scopus database of peer-reviewed scientific literature. It briefly discusses the conduction mechanisms in these polymers, which influence key properties such as electrical conductivity, transparency, and stability under external factors. Various methods for producing these polymers are examined, including chemical deposition, electrochemical techniques, and the incorporation of conductive nanoparticles to enhance functional characteristics. The analysis culminates in a summary table containing data on the transparency, conductivity, and other functional properties of different polymer materials, facilitating their selection for specific applications. Additionally, the paper addresses the prospects and challenges associated with the use of these polymers in flexible electronics, next-generation displays, and other emerging technologies where traditional materials may be less effective or practical.