Zhou, Y.-Y.; Xu, Y.-C.; Yao, Z.-F.; Li, J.-Y.; Pan, C.-K.; Lu, Y.; Yang, C.-Y.; Ding, L.; Xiao, B.-F.; Wang, X.-Y.; Shao, Y.; Zhang, W.-B.; Wang, J.-Y.; Wang, H.; Pei, J.* Visualizing the multi-level assembly structures of conjugated molecular systems with chain-length dependent behavior. Nat. Commun. 2023, 14, 3340. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-39133-w

It remains challenging to understand the structural evolution of conjugated polymers from single chains to solvated aggregates and film microstructures, although it underpins the performance of optoelectrical devices fabricated via the mainstream solution processing method. With several ensemble visual measurements, here we unravel the morphological evolution process of a model system of isoindigo-based conjugated molecules, including the hidden molecular assembly pathways, the mesoscale network formation, and their unorthodox chain dependence. Short chains show rigid chain conformations forming discrete aggregates in solution, which further grow to form a highly ordered film that exhibits poor electrical performance. In contrast, long chains exhibit flexible chain conformations, creating interlinked aggregates networks in solution, which are directly imprinted into films, forming interconnective solid-state microstructure with excellent electrical performance. Visualizing multi-level assembly structures of conjugated molecules provides a deep understanding of the inheritance of assemblies from solution to solid-state, accelerating the optimization of device fabrication.