Synthesis and properties of poly(p-phenylene vinylene) derivatives with hyperbranched structure and containing a nitro substituent

ABSTRACT: In order to improve efficiency, processability, and stability, two groups of novel poly(p-phenylene vinylene) (PPV) derivatives (P(1)–P(3) and P(4)–P(6)) with hyperbranched structure and containing a nitro substituent were synthesized via a Gilch reaction in different monomer ratios. The properties of the polymers were investigated by using UV–Vis absorption, fluorescence spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. The result shows that the band gaps of the PPV derivatives with a nitro substituent were decreased and the polymers had higher molecular weights (10(6)), excellent solubility in common organic solvents, good film-forming ability, and better thermal stability. The polymers can be used as an efficient acceptor material in polymeric solar cells. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: [Image: see text]