Solvent mediated enhanced mobility of PPV films cast under the presence of a static electric field

Application of a high voltage static electric field during casting increases charge carrier mobility and reduces nanostructure within MEH-PPV thin films. Greater enhancement occurs in films formed from a high static dipole moment solvent (chlorobenzene) than from one having a low moment (toluene). Analysis by Bassler’s Gaussian Disorder Model indicates that the electric field decreases positional disorder – the effect being greater for the higher static dipole moment solvent. This suggests that the interaction of the electric field with MEH-PPV during deposition is indirect rather than direct, being mediated by the evaporating solvent.