Basics of Macromolecules That Support Image Technology (III) —Synthesis and Applications of Semiconducting Polymers—

Abstract

The coming of the 6G era, in which people, items, and services will be seamlessly connected via the Internet, will require innovations in imaging technology. Innovations in molecular design are required for the liquid crystal materials and organic semiconductor materials that have supported imaging technology up to now. In particular, it is essential to establish molecular design strategies to create flexible and tough devices with improved mechanical properties by releasing stress while maintaining electronic properties. This chapter focuses on synthesizing semiconducting polymers and developing flexible/stretchable semiconducting polymer materials, from the fundamentals to applications. With the progress of control technologies for the regioregularity, molecular weight, and molecular weight distribution of semiconducting polymers, such polymers have attracted attention for their high performance and multifunctionality. Thus, the creation of new organic electronics material platforms is highly expected in the near future.