Improved PEDOT Conductivity via Suppression of Crystallite Formation in Fe(III) Tosylate During Vapor Phase Polymerization

Vapor phase polymerization was used to synthesize high conductivity poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxyphenylene) (PEDOT). The monomer is presented to an oxidant‐rich substrate in vapor form and even for short polymerization times, 10–30 min, Fe(III) tosylate has a propensity for water absorption leading to crystal formation. Poor oxidant treatment before polymerization or high humidity during polymerization can create holes in the PEDOT film decreasing its conductivity. The addition of an amphiphilic copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)‐ran‐poly(propylene glycol) suppresses crystal growth allowing better film formation. The humidity level during synthesis was optimized at 35% relative humidity (RH), producing a conductivity of 761 S · cm−1. Additionally, the copolymer extends the RH range that is tolerable for polymer synthesis.