Supramolecular Systems with Large Energy Level Offset for Organic Electronics

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Norbert Koch
• Subject Area: Physical Chemistry of Molecules, Liquids and Interfaces, Biophysical Chemistry
• Term: from 2004 to 2011
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5443159

A broad knowledge base for the fundamental understanding of physico-chemical properties at interfaces comprising conjugated organic materials with large energy level offsets shall be established. The requirement to adjust the energy level alignment within organic-based (opto-) electronic devices becomes more stringent as the demand for device complexity, function, and efficiency increases. Novel means to meet these requirements shall be explored, by realizing highly defined organic supramolecular heterostructures with large energy level offsets, including charge transfer complexes. The identification of mechanisms important for energy level alignment, charge carrier injection and transport, and the prediction of electronic properties of a given interface, shall be accomplished by combining a unique choice of experimental methods and theoretical description. As device dimensions are continuously becoming smaller, device architectures will ultimately reach the molecular scale. Once established, the knowledge base for interfacial phenomena can be exploited towards pursuing the realization of device function on a molecular scale, in particular by the use of scanning probe methods. This work will contribute to a rapid advancement in the utilization of supramolecular systems at interfaces for new physical concepts. New devices architectures with improved performance and reduced dimensions are anticipated.

• DFG Programme: Independent Junior Research Groups