Unexpected near-infrared photoluminescence in P-type organic mixed ionic-electronic conductors

While developing p-type thienoisoindigo-based copolymers for organic electrochemical transistor applications, we discovered that many of these materials exhibit unexpectedly strong near-infrared (NIR) photoluminescence. This talk will present structure–property insights from a comparative study of donor–acceptor copolymers. We examine how backbone composition, molecular weight, and side-chain identity influence emission in both thin films and nanoparticles. Despite being optimized for charge transport, these polymers display NIR emission maxima between 750–950 nm with extraordinary brightness. Our findings highlight a dual-functionality in organic electronic materials that bridges photonic and electronic properties. The talk will outline design rules for controlling optical performance and discuss opportunities for integrating these materials into imaging, sensing, or hybrid optoelectronic platforms.