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Gilles Horowitz

Plastic electronics is a concept that emerged forty years ago, with the discovery of electrically conductive polymers. Ten years later, the first electronic devices using organic solids in place of the ubiquitous inorganic semiconductors were realised. The best achievement of plastic electronics is constituted by Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) that equip the display of many smartphones, and even TV sets.

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Plastic electronics is a concept that emerged forty years ago, with the discovery of electrically conductive polymers. Ten years later, the first electronic devices using organic solids in place of the ubiquitous inorganic semiconductors were realised. The best achievement of plastic electronics is constituted by Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) that equip the display of many smartphones, and even TV sets.

The objective of this course is to provide a comprehensive overview of the physics of plastic electronic devices. After taking this course, the student should be able to demonstrate theoretical knowledge on the following subjects:

Concept of organic semiconductors;

Charge carrier transport in polymeric and organic semiconductors;

Optical properties of organic semiconductors;

Charge injection from metals to organic solids;

Operating mode of the main plastic electronic devices: Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), organic photovoltaic cells (OPVs) and organic field-effect transistors (OFETs).

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to plastic electronics
This first module is an introduction to the concept of semiconductor, which is the primary consituent of all electronic decives. We also show how some organic compounds can behave as semiconductors.
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Charge carrier transport in organic semiconductors
Electronic devives work through an electrical current generated by applying an electrical voltage. The process is controlled by charge carrier transport, descibed in this module.
Optical properties of organic semiconductors
Beside electrical properties, electronic devices also involve optical aspects, for example in light-emitting diodes and photovoltaic cells. This modulel describes the interactions of light with organic semiconductors.
Interfaces in plastic electronic devices
Plastic electronic devices

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores a new and rapidly growing field that impacts many industries
Develops a strong foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which are used in many modern technologies
Covers a wide range of topics with high relevance to industry
Taught by an instructor who is recognized for their work in plastic electronics
Includes a mix of media, such as videos, readings, and discussions, which can appeal to a variety of learning styles
Provides a comprehensive overview of the subject matter, which is suitable for students with a range of backgrounds

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Reviews summary

Plastic electronics: organic optoelectronics and photovoltaics

Overall, learners say this Plastic Electronics course is well-received, earning a largely positive feedback score. Students report that the course is well-structured, provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of plastic electronics, and covers a range of topics in a concise way. The course also offers engaging and enjoyable video lectures and helpful quizzes. However, some learners note that the course may be more suited for those with a background in electronics and that the exams and assignments can sometimes be difficult.
Includes helpful quizzes that reinforce learning.
"The course also offers engaging and enjoyable video lectures and helpful quizzes."
"Excellent cours qui manquait à mon cursus de physique."
"It is very useful and i have learnt many new information in this course."
Involves engaging and enjoyable video lectures.
"The course was well-structured and the instructor made me feel comfortable through the pace of the videos and the content was easy to understand."
"Nice concise course. Difficult theoretical concepts were explained through examples and quizzes."
"Very useful courses"
Covers a range of topics in a concise way.
"Covered many topics without skipping anything that is important or complicating anything that could be difficult."
"Concise and useful."
"The course is complete, synthetic and well organized."
Provides a strong foundation in plastic electronics.
"Excellent (introductory) course on Plastic Electronics..."
"This course is great for learning Organic Electronics."
"If you're far more concerned with the content, then this is certainly a 5 star course."
May be more suited for those with a background in electronics.
"You really need some understanding of mid-advanced electronics, chemistry and material science knowledge for this course as the teacher talks in terms not for beginners."
"The course is complete, synthetic and well organized. It is useful to newbies but to experts too because it summarizes the main topics of OE."
"This course is still new. It lacks material and quizzes but it is good that some universities are at least trying to provide courses on such subjects."
Exams can be difficult.
"However, some learners note that the course may be more suited for those with a background in electronics and that the exams and assignments can sometimes be difficult."
"The quiz and exam questions could be more clear in some questions."
"The 1st & 2nd weeks are good but later on everything looses track.If you want to study only equations then go for it."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Plastic electronics with these activities:
Review basic physics concepts
Reinforce basic physics concepts to build a strong foundation for the course
Browse courses on Physics
Show steps
  • Review the basics of electricity and magnetism
  • Practice solving simple physics problems
Review electromagnetism concepts
Reviewing the fundamentals of electromagnetism will strengthen your understanding of semiconductor behavior.
Browse courses on Electromagnetism
Show steps
  • Revise Gauss's law, Faraday's law, and Ampere's law.
  • Solve practice problems involving electromagnetic fields.
Explore online tutorials on polymer synthesis
Gain insights into the techniques used to synthesize organic semiconductors
Show steps
  • Identify reputable online resources for polymer synthesis tutorials
  • Follow a tutorial to synthesize a specific organic semiconductor
13 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 16 activities
Review your General Chemistry notes
Brushing up on general chemistry before enrolling will help this new material make more sense from the start.
Browse courses on General Chemistry
Show steps
  • Locate your notes from your last General Chemistry course
  • Review definitions, key chemical formulas, chemical structures, and key principles
Discuss charge injection mechanisms
Enhance your understanding of charge injection mechanisms through peer discussions.
Show steps
  • Form a study group with classmates
  • Prepare by reviewing the concepts of charge injection
  • Facilitate discussions, sharing knowledge and insights
Engage in discussions with other learners about organic photovoltaic cells (OPVs)
Share knowledge and perspectives with peers to enhance understanding of OPVs
Show steps
  • Identify online forums or discussion groups focused on OPVs
  • Participate in discussions and share insights
Explore the physics of organic semiconductors
Guided tutorials will provide you with structured guidance to深入理解 the underlying physics of organic semiconductors.
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on the electronic properties of organic materials.
  • Follow the tutorials, taking notes and asking questions in discussion forums.
  • Apply your newfound knowledge to understand the concepts covered in the course.
Solve practice problems on charge carrier transport
Enhance understanding of the key concept of charge carrier transport in organic semiconductors
Show steps
  • Complete a series of exercises on charge carrier mobility and diffusion
  • Analyze experimental data on charge carrier transport in organic materials
Solve practice problems
Sharpen your understanding of charge carrier transport in organic semiconductors by solving practice problems.
Show steps
  • Review the concepts of charge carrier transport in organic semiconductors
  • Attempt solving practice problems
  • Check your answers and identify areas for improvement
Solve problems on charge carrier transport
Regular practice will enhance your ability to analyze and solve problems related to charge carrier transport, a critical aspect of plastic electronics.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems on charge carrier transport in organic semiconductors.
  • Attempt to solve the problems independently.
  • Review your solutions and seek clarification on any difficulties encountered.
Create a mind map of plastic electronic devices
Creating a mind map will help you visualize and connect the different types of plastic electronic devices and their applications.
Show steps
  • Gather information about different plastic electronic devices from the course materials and other sources.
  • Brainstorm and organize the information into a mind map.
  • Add connections and relationships between the devices.
Write a blog post summarizing the key concepts of plastic electronics
Reinforce understanding by explaining the fundamental principles to others
Show steps
  • Identify the most important concepts to cover
  • Research and gather relevant information
  • Write the blog post in a clear and engaging manner
Explore online tutorials on OLED displays
Deepen your understanding of OLED displays by exploring informative tutorials.
Show steps
  • Search for reliable online tutorials on OLED displays
  • Watch or read the tutorials carefully, taking notes
  • Apply the knowledge gained to your understanding of OLEDs
Contribute to an open-source project related to plastic electronics
Gain practical experience by contributing to the development of organic electronics technology
Browse courses on Open Source
Show steps
  • Identify a suitable open-source project
  • Understand the project's goals and codebase
  • Identify an area where you can contribute
Design a basic organic light-emitting diode (OLED) device
Apply knowledge of OLEDs to design and optimize a functional device
Show steps
  • Research the different layers and materials used in OLEDs
  • Design the device architecture and optimize layer thicknesses
  • Evaluate the performance of the designed OLED device
Design a basic organic solar cell
Solidify your understanding of organic photovoltaic cells by designing a basic solar cell.
Show steps
  • Research the principles of organic solar cells
  • Sketch a basic design for your solar cell
  • Calculate the expected performance of your design
  • Present your design to classmates or instructors for feedback

Career center

Learners who complete Plastic electronics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Optoelectronics Engineer
An Optoelectronics Engineer designs, develops, and tests optoelectronic devices, which are devices that convert light into electrical signals or vice versa. Plastic electronics plays a vital role in the development of optoelectronic devices, as it enables the creation of flexible and lightweight devices that can be used in a variety of applications. This course can help you build a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which will prepare you for a career as an Optoelectronics Engineer.
Materials Scientist
A Materials Scientist researches and develops new materials for use in a variety of applications, including electronics, energy storage, and medicine. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Materials Scientists are needed to develop new materials for use in plastic electronic devices. This course can help you build a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which will prepare you for a career as a Materials Scientist in this field.
Electronic Engineer
An Electronic Engineer designs, develops, and tests electronic circuits and devices. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Electronic Engineers are needed to design and develop new plastic electronic devices. This course can help you build a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which will prepare you for a career as an Electronic Engineer in this field.
Research Scientist
A Research Scientist conducts research in a specific field of science, such as physics, chemistry, or biology. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Research Scientists are needed to conduct research on new materials and devices. This course can help you build a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which will prepare you for a career as a Research Scientist in this field.
Device Physicist
A Device Physicist researches the physics of electronic devices. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Device Physicists are needed to research the physics of new plastic electronic devices. This course can help you build a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which will prepare you for a career as a Device Physicist in this field.
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer creates technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and marketing materials. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Technical Writers are needed to create technical documentation for new plastic electronic devices. This course can help you build a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which will prepare you for a career as a Technical Writer in this field.
Patent Attorney
A Patent Attorney helps clients obtain patents for their inventions. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Patent Attorneys are needed to help clients obtain patents for new plastic electronic devices. This course can help you build a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which will prepare you for a career as a Patent Attorney in this field.
Sales Engineer
A Sales Engineer sells technical products and services to customers. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Sales Engineers are needed to sell new plastic electronic devices. This course can help you build a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which will prepare you for a career as a Sales Engineer in this field.
Product Manager
A Product Manager manages the development and launch of new products. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Product Managers are needed to manage the development and launch of new plastic electronic devices. This course can help you build a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which will prepare you for a career as a Product Manager in this field.
Marketing Manager
A Marketing Manager develops and executes marketing campaigns for products and services. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Marketing Managers are needed to develop and execute marketing campaigns for new plastic electronic devices. This course can help you build a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which will prepare you for a career as a Marketing Manager in this field.
Business Development Manager
A Business Development Manager identifies and develops new business opportunities for a company. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Business Development Managers are needed to identify and develop new business opportunities for companies in this field. This course may be helpful for building a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which can be beneficial for a career as a Business Development Manager in this field.
Project Manager
A Project Manager plans and executes projects. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Project Managers are needed to plan and execute projects in this field. This course may be helpful for building a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which can be beneficial for a career as a Project Manager in this field.
Quality Assurance Manager
A Quality Assurance Manager ensures that products and services meet quality standards. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Quality Assurance Managers are needed to ensure that new plastic electronic devices meet quality standards. This course may be helpful for building a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which can be beneficial for a career as a Quality Assurance Manager in this field.
Financial Analyst
A Financial Analyst analyzes financial data to make investment recommendations. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Financial Analysts are needed to analyze financial data for companies in this field. This course may be helpful for building a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which can be beneficial for a career as a Financial Analyst in this field.
Accountant
An Accountant prepares and analyzes financial statements. Plastic electronics is a rapidly growing field, and Accountants are needed to prepare and analyze financial statements for companies in this field. This course may be helpful for building a foundation in the physics of plastic electronic devices, which can be beneficial for a career as an Accountant in this field.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Plastic electronics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the different materials and devices used in OLEDs, covering both the fundamentals and applications.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of organic photovoltaics, covering topics such as materials, devices, and applications in a single volume.
Provides a more in-depth look at the physics of organic semiconductors, and it would be useful for additional reading.
Provides a comprehensive overview of semiconducting polymers, and it would be useful for additional reading.
Provides a comprehensive overview of organic materials for optical and (opto)electronic applications, and it would be useful for additional reading.
Provides a more in-depth look at organic photovoltaics, and it would be useful for additional reading.

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