Semiconducting Fibers for Optoelectronic Devices

Abstract

The field of optoelectronics has experienced remarkable growth and innovation in recent decades, leading to the development of numerous cutting-edge technologies that have transformed various industries. These technologies have had an indelible impact on our daily lives, and environmentally friendly energy solutions. In the meantime, fibers based on semiconductor polymers represent a remarkable class of materials at the promising frontier of polymer science with electronics and optoelectronics. These elongated structures, composed of organic polymers with conjugated molecular architectures, exhibit semiconducting behavior, which makes them pivotal in the realm of modern electronics and optoelectronics. Semiconducting polymer fibers offer a unique blend of characteristics, including mechanical flexibility, low cost, lightweight composition, and the ability to transport electrical charge, which distinguishes them from conventional inorganic semiconductors. Their versatility extends to applications spanning flexible electronics, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), photovoltaic devices, sensors and wearable technology. This innovative class of materials holds the promise of revolutionizing various industries by enabling the development of cutting-edge, lightweight and adaptable electronic and photonic technologies. As research continues to advance, fibers based on semiconductor polymers remain at the forefront of materials science, driving progress toward more flexible and sustainable electronic solutions. © 2025 selection and editorial matter, Ram K. Gupta; individual chapters, the contributors.