CRYSTAL-STRUCTURES OF OLIGOTHIOPHENES AND THEIR RELEVANCE TO CHARGE-TRANSPORT

The crystal structures and morphologies of oligothiophenes, in the for m of both single crystals and thin films, are reviewed and compared wi th those of other oligomers and conducting polymers. The ''herringbone '' structure emerges as a pivotal motif, in particular for charge tran sport. Although further research is necessary to elucidate the charge transport mechanism, this does not prevent the structural and electron ic features of conducting oligomers being exploited in electronic devi ces such as FETs and LEDs.