Large-scalable RTCVD Graphene/PEDOT:PSS hybrid conductive film for application in transparent and flexible thermoelectric nanogenerators

Abstract

Poly(3,4-ethyldioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), as an thermoelectric(TE) material, exhibits a high electrical conductivity and ZT value (10⁻¹–10⁰). Nevertheless, a low thermovoltage of the organic thermoelectric materials must be overcome, in comparison to that of semi metals. Recently, to address these challenges, several researchers have investigated PEDOT:PSS/carbon material composites. Herein, a transparent and flexible hybrid film made up of rapid thermal chemical vapor deposition (RTCVD) graphene and PEDOT:PSS results in enhanced TE performance. The PEDOT:PSS was synthesized by oxidative polymerization, and the hybrid process of the graphene film and PEDOT:PSS film was conducted using the layer-by-layer method. The results of AFM and Raman spectroscopy revealed that the synergistic effect through composite films improved the electrical properties. The maximum electrical conductivity and power factor of the RTCVD graphene/PEDOT:PSS (RCG/P) hybrid film were 1096 S cm⁻¹ and 57.9 μW m⁻¹ K⁻², respectively. In addition, the RCG/P hybrid film exhibited excellent mechanical flexibility and stability.