PEDOT:PSS-based electronic materials: Preparation, performance tuning, processing, applications, and future prospect

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) represents a breakthrough in addressing the processability challenges of traditionally insoluble and infusible conducting polymers (CPs). It uniquely combines solution processability with high chemical and thermal stability, excellent biocompatibility, and outstanding electrical, optical, and mechanical properties. For over 35 years, PEDOT:PSS has remained at the forefront of both commercial and academic research in organic electronics, spanning disciplines such as chemistry, materials science, biology, electronics, medicine, energy, and engineering. This review offers a comprehensive and systematic overview of PEDOT:PSS, covering synthesis strategies, performance optimization, composite system design, and processing techniques across various material forms, including aqueous dispersions, powders, films, nanofibers, hydrogels, aerogels, elastomers, and sponges. It also discusses the specific requirements, current status, and ongoing challenges in both laboratory research and industrial applications. In light of recent advances in flexible, wearable, and multifunctionally integrated electronics, this review outlines future development directions with an emphasis on miniaturization and environmental sustainability. Particular attention is given to emerging applications in flexible, wearable, biomedical, and intelligent electronics, aiming to provide researchers with critical insights to inspire innovation at the frontiers of this rapidly evolving field. (c) 2025 Elsevier Ltd. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.