Abstract

We have prepared poly(2,5-dimethoxy-1,4-phenylenevinylene) (DMEOPPV) and poly(2,5-thienylenevinylene) (PTV) via xanthate precursor polymer routes. The respective precursor polymers can be thermally converted to their corresponding conjugated polymers without the need for acid catalysis. For both DMEOPPV and PTV the UV-visible absorption and infrared spectra were similar to the polymers when prepared via alkoxy precursors. Films of DMEOPPV and blends of DMEOPPV and PPV were found to be luminescent with energy being transferred from the PPV host to the DMEOPPV guest. Films of PTV or PTV–PPV blends were found not to be luminescent.