Organic electronic materials are defined broadly as carbon-based materials that are capable of transporting charge both in liquid-supported systems and in the solid state. While the exact molecular architectures of the materials may vary based on the desired functionality and ultimate device application, these materials do not necessarily rely on a high degree of crystallinity or band-like transport to shuttle charges in response to stimuli (e.g., an applied electric field). This is in direct contrast to many systems based on inorganic semiconductors and conductors. Traditionally, two classes of these organic electronic materials have emerged: 1) small molecules and 2) polymers. While each class has its own set of positive aspects, drawbacks, processing conditions, and the ultimate cost-effectiveness many of the fundamental transport physics between the two classes of materials remain the same, although some distinctions do exist. In this course, we will draw on the similarity and distinctions of these two classes. Furthermore, we will evaluate how these materials can be implemented successfully in established (e.g., organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs), organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices) and emerging (e.g., thermoelectric (TE) generators) organic electronic modules. In this way, we aim to train the students of the course in the ability to tie molecular transport phenomena with macroscopic device response such that they are well-prepared to analyze, troubleshoot, and design the next generation of organic electronic materials and devices. This course is the latest in a series offered by the nanoHUB-U project which is jointly funded by Purdue and NSF with the goal of transcending disciplines though short courses accessible to students in any branch of science or engineering. These courses focus on cutting-edge topics distilled into short lectures with quizzes, homework, and practice exams.
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