Processing-induced chromism in thin films of polythiophene derivatives

Langmuir-Blodgett films of amphiphilic poly[3-oligo(oxyethylene)-4-methylthiophene] have been obtained. The resulting thin films are poorly conjugated, with a maximum of absorption at 405 nm which remains almost constant upon heating or cooling. In contrast, cast thin films of this polymer exhibit a maximum of absorption at 550 nm and show interesting thermochromic effects. These results to indicate that the method of pre paration of thin films can have a significant influence on the conformational structure of the polymer at room temperature and, consequently, on its thermochromic behaviour.