The Effect of Solvation in Conducting Polymers

The incorporation of solvent molecules into solid-state organic conductors affects both electrical and mechanical properties of the conducting complexes. Evidence for this has been appearing from the numerous laboratories currently involved in conducting polymer research. On compiling these examples, common rationale for the observed effects can be formulated based largely on the behavior of smaller molecules as found in the organic literature. Nonetheless, the examples must be considered on a case-to-case basis. In assigning the source of solvent effects, the determination of whether solvation is occurring on the charged polymer backbone or on the (oppositely charged) dopant counterion is critical. Among the proposed causes of solvent effects are solvent-separated ion pairing, charge depinning, and plasticization.