Surface modification of poly(2-methoxy-5-(2′-ethyl-hexyloxy)-1,4-phenylene vinylene) (MEH-PPV) by confined photo-catalytic oxidation

► The CPO on the MEH-PPV surface results in water contact angle change without influence on optical properties. ► Water can be absorbed on the modified MEH-PPV surface without sliding even at substrate tilt angles of 90° and 180°. ► The water transport test shows that the modified MEH-PPV surface can absorb water from the pristine MEH-PPV surface. ► This is the first time that the modified π-conjugated polymer possesses the water transport behavior. ► The CPO on the MEH-PPV surface is able to further expand the use of MEH-PPV.