Direct Probing of a Polymer Electrolyte/Luminescent Conjugated Polymer Mixed Ionic/Electronic Conductor

What will happen if one brings two metallic probes into direct contact with a polymer film and apply a voltage bias? We demonstrate that, for a mixed ionic/electronic conductor containing a luminescent conjugated polymer and a polymer electrolyte, it is possible to induce strong in situ electrochemical doping of the luminescent polymer and form a dynamic light-emitting p-n junction. Using time-lapse fluorescence imaging, we have visualized p- and n-doping of various shapes and shades, p-n junction electroluminescence, and the effects of voltage reversal. The direct probing technique offers great simplicity and versatility for studying luminescent mixed ionic/electronic conductors.