Publication Type
Journal
Journal Name
Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics
Publication Date
Page Numbers
7745 to 7749
Volume
21
Abstract
Using small-angle neutron scattering, we conducted a detailed conformational study of poly(3-alkylthiophene) solutions in deuterated dichlorobenzene. The focus was placed on addressing the influence of the spatial arrangement of side chain constituents on backbone conformation. We demonstrate that by introducing a branch point in the side chain, side chain steric interactions may promote torsional motion between backbone units, resulting in greater chain flexibility. Our findings highlight the key role of topological isomerism in determining the chain rigidity and throw new light on the debate about the effective approaches for optimizing the electronic properties of conducting polymers via side chain engineering.
