Anion-complex formation for the wettability control of a boron-containing π-conjugated polymer

<p>An anion-responsive boron-containing π-conjugated polymer was synthesized via the Sonogashira coupling polymerization. The ¹¹B NMR, UV/vis absorption, and fluorescence spectra confirmed the formation of an anion complex between the polymer and tetrabutylammonium fluoride (TBAF). Thin films were then prepared either by the pre-addition method, where the thin film was prepared using a solution of the polymer and TBAF, or by the post-addition method, where the polymer thin film was treated with an aqueous TBAF solution. The contact angle measurements revealed an enhancement in wettability with both methods. Consequently, wettability can be controlled via anion-complex formation at the surface.</p>