In the quest for next-generation organic electronic materials, researchers have drawn inspiration from nature’s intricate designs. A groundbreaking study titled “Bulk Assembly of Intrachain Folded Aromatic Polyamides Facilitating Through-Space Charge Transport Phenomenon” led by Dr Sabyasachi Mukhopadhyay, Associate Professor in the Department of Physics, introduces a novel class of polymers that mimic the secondary structures of biomolecules. Published in the high-impact Q1 journal SMALL with an Impact Factor of 13.0, this research unveils the potential of intrachain folded aromatic polyamides in facilitating efficient through-space charge transport.
Abstract :
This study presents the design and synthesis of periodically grafted aromatic Polyamides capable of intrachain folding, mimicking secondary structures seen in biomolecules. Leveraging the immiscibility between aromatic backbones and Polyethylene glycol (PEG) side chains, the polymers self-assemble into lamellar, phase-separated domains with ordered π-stacking.
The structural order is further enhanced by incorporating aromatic guest molecules, enabling efficient through-space charge transport. Structural and morphological investigations via SAXS, WAXS, AFM, and TEM confirm the formation of highly ordered π-domains. Charge transport measurements reveal vertical current densities as high as 10⁻⁴ A/cm² in annealed host–guest complexes, comparable to conventional conjugated polymers, demonstrating the potential of these materials for stable, anisotropic organic electronics.
Practical implementation :
This research provides a new strategy for designing flexible, stable, and efficient organic electronic materials without the need for traditional conjugated polymers. The ability to precisely control the orientation and spacing of conductive regions at
The nanoscale opens doors for:
- Wearable and stretchable electronics
- Flexible sensors and low-power devices
- Organic transistors and memory devices with tunable directionality
- Environmentally stable devices, useful in humid or high-temperature conditions
- These innovations can lower manufacturing costs, enhance sustainability, and enable novel applications in healthcare, IoT, and smart textiles.
This research was a collaborative effort between multiple departments and institutions including Department of Chemical Sciences, IISER Mohali, Department of Physical Sciences, IISER Mohali and Department of Physics, SRM University – AP (Ramkumar K, Dr Sabyasachi Mukhopadhyay) and was supported by Department of Science and Technology – Science and Engineering Research Board (DST-SERB)
Future research plans:
Dr Sabyasachi Mukhopadhyay is working towards “Integrated Center for Organic Electronics” – a multidisciplinary innovation hub focused on designing the next generation of flexible, sustainable, and high-performance electronic materials and devices.