Chromic Effects in Poly (3-(10-hexanoyloxydecyl)-2,5-thienylene) as Precursor of ω-Hydroxydecyl-functionalized Polythiophene

The preparation of a hexanoyloxydecyl 3-substituted polythiophene and its conversion to the corresponding hydroxydecyl polymer, soluble in common organic solvents, is described. Solvatochromic and thermochromic effects of the two polymers were investigated by UV-vis spectroscopy in pure solvent and in solvent/nonsolvent solutions. A very different response was found depending on the type of functional group. The carboxylate polymer requires the synergy of both nonsolvent and low temperature for a strong chromic effect comparable to that of the hydroxy polymer to be observed. A possible explanation of this behavior is discussed. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd