Polymers for Optoelectronic and Energy Applications
The Centre for Optoelectronic and Energy Applications (OPTOEL) is focused on the development of advanced polymers and polymer composites with a superior charge or ionic transport, with photoelectrical sensitivity and with energy storage or conversion capability. Optical and electrical phenomena in these polymer materials are studied, relying on the close cooperation of chemists, materials scientists and physicists.
The preparation of nanostructured conducting polymers, viz. polyaniline and polypyrrole, is investigated in the department of Conducting Polymers. Materials with mixed electronic and ionic conductivity are new classes of promising conductors.
The experimental and theoretical studies of optical and electrical phenomena in polymer semiconductors utilised in solar cells, light-emitting diodes, organic transistors and electronic memories is carried out in close cooperation with the design of the functional materials and conducting inks for flexible electronics in the department of Polymers for Electronics and Photonics.
Application of conducting polymers in gas separation ranks also among prospective research directions in the department of Polymer Membranes. The membrane technology contributes also to the construction of fuel cells and to hydrogen chemistry. The membrane research in the Institute formed a basis for the Czech membrane industry.
