Doping-induced charge transfer in conductive polymers

Molecular doping has become a widely used method to modulate the electric performance of organic semiconductors (OSC). Highly effective char ge transf er during molecular doping is desired to achieve ideal electrical conductivity. Two types of charge transfer mechanisms are widely accepted in molecular doping process: integer charge transfer (ICT) and charge transfer complex (CTC). In this review, fundamental principles of two mechanisms are revisited and the characterization methods are depicted. The key points for the formation of two mechanisms are highlighted from aspects of molecular structure and process engineering. Then, the strategies to improve the proportion of ICT are discussed. Finally, the challenges and perspectives for future developments in the molecular doping of polymer semiconductors are provided. (c) 2023 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Chinese Chemical Society and Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.