Freestanding\nand Flexible Micrometer-Thick PEDOT:PSS\nFilm with High Power Factor

High-efficiency thermoelectric materials\nare vital for sustainable\nenergy. This work presents a reliable method to fabricate freestanding, flexible\nmicrometer-thick films of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)\n(PEDOT:PSS), achieving a power factor of 204 μW m<sup>–1</sup> K<sup>–2</sup>, 4 orders of magnitude higher than pristine\nfilms. This improvement stems from polymer chain realignment and enhanced\ncharge transport via solvent doping, coupled with PSS reduction during\npost-treatment, which also strengthens film mechanics. Crucially,\nthe freestanding nature ensures transferability, making them ideal\nfor versatile applications. Besides thermoelectrics, these highly\nconductive, robust, and flexible PEDOT:PSS films provide attractive\nsolutions for organic solar cells, battery electrodes, and flexible\nelectronics.