The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

The advancement of flexible thermoelectric (TE) materials relies on the development of efficient n-type conjugated polymers; however, progress in this area remains relatively limited. In this study, we explore a molecular engineering approach to enhance the charge transport characteristics of an n-type polymer system, poly(benzodifurandione) (PBFDO). By inducing a controlled isomerization of specific backbone segments through hydrothermal treatment, we achieve notable changes in structural order and transport behavior. These modifications promote a shift in the dominant charge transport mechanism and enable an improved thermoelectric response through an energy-filtering effect. The treated polymer films exhibit promising electrical and thermoelectric performance, offering new insights into structure–property relationships in conjugated TE materials. This work highlights the potential of isomeric design strategies for advancing next-generation polymer-based TE devices.