Synthesis and properties of two novel copolymers based on squaraine and fluorene units for solar cell materials

Two novel copolymers based on squaraine and fluorine units have been synthesized through palladium catalyzed Suzuki coupling reaction and Sonogashira coupling reaction, respectively. The structures and properties of the two copolymers were characterized by FT-IR, NMR, UV–vis absorbance (Abs), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The solution absorption spectrums of P1 and P2 show two distinct absorption bands, one locates at 300–500 nm and the other at 600–800 nm. The absorption spectrums of P1 and P2 in films are broadened obviously and the spectral responses are extended up to 900 nm. Thermal gravimetric analysis demonstrates that the polymers are stable. Cyclic voltammetry experiment shows that the band gaps of the copolymers are 1.65 eV and 1.67 eV, respectively, suggesting their potential for applications as solar cells materials.