Conductive polymers: New materials for microelectronics

Electrically-conductive organic compounds have an unusual combination of properties which may make them suitable for microelectronic devices. Generally, the materials have low conductivities initially, but reaction with suitable oxidizing or reducing "dopants" causes dramatic changes in electrical, optical and magnetic properties. These materials offer a unique opportunity to modify properties of a material over a wide range through the "doping" process. The materials have the further advantages of being light weight and easily prepared from inexpensive precursors. The remaining goals in this area are for enhanced stability and simpler processing of the polymers. This paper will describe recent developments in this area, and possible applications for these materials for microelectronic devices such as Schottky barriers, p/n junctions and switching devices.