Template approaches to conjugated polymer micro- and nanoparticles

The control of nanostructure and morphology in conjugated polymers is of increasing importance to organic electronics and photonics. This tutorial review discusses template-based approaches to colloidal conjugated polymer particles having diameters in the 1-1000 nm range. Both soft and hard template approaches are covered, and particular emphasis is placed on those methodologies capable of producing spherical, monodisperse particles with good colloidal stability. Factors affecting the size and morphology of the conjugated polymer microspheres are discussed. Finally, emerging applications for particles of this type are highlighted, including those in the field of photonic crystals.