Quantitative assessment by local probe methods of the mechanical and electrical properties of inkjet-printed PEDOT:PSS thin films over Indium Tin Oxide substrates

Abstract

Thin films of Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) complexed with Poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) on Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) have been prepared by inkjet printing technology. The process allows obtaining thin films over large areas. A relatively broad range of thicknesses can be obtained by the addition of subsequent polymer layers resembling an additive manufacturing process. The resulting inkjet PEDOT:PSS films are homogeneous as regard both electrical and mechanical properties. In spite of the characteristic parallel line topography of these inkjet printed films, both the Quantitative Nanomechanical Mapping (QNM) and the Conductive-Atomic Force Microscope (C-AFM) characterization reveal homogeneous values throughout the polymer surface regardless of the welding zones. The results discussed in this work provide the basis for the application of inkjet printing as deposition method for electrically conducting PEDOT:PSS into a large area with mechanical stability. • Thin films of PEDOT:PSS on Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) have been prepared by inkjet printing technology over large areas. • Inkjet PEDOT:PSS films are homogeneous as regard both electrical and mechanical properties even through the welding zones.