Polymer Nanofibers and Nanotubes: Charge Transport and Device Applications

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent progress in the synthesis, electrical properties, and potential nanoelectronic applications of conjugated polymer nanofibers and nanotubes, emphasizing theoretical models and 1D transport phenomena.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive analysis of recent experimental and theoretical developments in polymer nanofiber and nanotube charge transport and explores their application prospects.

Findings

Transport in polymer nanostructures aligns with 1D conduction theories.

Various models explain charge transport mechanisms in conjugated polymer nanostructures.

Polymer nanofibers and nanotubes show promise for nanoelectronic device integration.

Abstract

A critical analysis of recent advances in synthesis and electrical characterization of nanofibers and nanotubes made of different conjugated polymers is presented. The applicability of various theoretical models is considered in order to explain results on transport in conducting polymer nanofibers and nanotubes. The relationship between these results and the one-dimensional (1D) nature of the conjugated polymers is discussed in light of theories for tunneling in 1D conductors (e.g. Luttinger liquid, Wigner crystal). The prospects for nanoelectronic applications of polymer fibers and tubes as wires, nanoscale field-effect transistors (nanoFETs), and in other applications are analyzed.