Solution Fabrication and Morphology Control of Organic Semiconductor Single-Crystal Thin Films

Shifeng Ke, Zheyuan Wang, Boyu Peng, Hanying Li

Prog Chem ›› 2026, Vol. 38 ›› Issue (5) : 849-869.

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Prog Chem ›› 2026, Vol. 38 ›› Issue (5) : 849-869. DOI: 10.7536/PC20250918
Review

Solution Fabrication and Morphology Control of Organic Semiconductor Single-Crystal Thin Films

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Abstract

Organic semiconductor single-crystals are promising materials for application in organic electronic devices, such as organic field-effect transistors, due to their superior charge carrier transport properties. Solution-based methods, with the advantages of low cost and scalability for mass production, have emerged as important approaches for the fabrication of organic semiconductor single-crystal thin films. A thorough understanding of the solution crystallization mechanisms of organic semiconductors is crucial for achieving precise control over thin film morphology. However, the understanding of solution crystallization mechanisms remains elusive, and thin film fabrication often relies on a trial-and-error approach. This review summarizes recent progress in the solution fabrication of organic semiconductor single-crystal thin films and the control of thin film morphology. We introduce commonly used solution processing techniques, including spin coating, drop casting, meniscus-guided coating, and liquid-surface-mediated growth, and elaborate strategies for morphology control, such as substrate surface modification, process parameter optimization, and solvent engineering. Additionally, the application of molecular dynamics simulations in exploring film deposition and microscopic crystallization mechanisms is discussed. Through a deeper understanding and precise manipulation of the crystallization mechanisms, the large-area fabrication and application of organic semiconductor single-crystal thin films can be realized in the near future, ultimately promoting the commercialization of organic semiconductors in areas such as flexible electronics.

Contents

1 Introduction

2 Structure and performance of organic semiconductor single crystals

3 Solution fabrication of organic semiconductor single-crystal thin films

3.1 Spin coating

3.2 Drop casting

3.3 Meniscus-guided coating

3.4 Liquid-surface-mediated growth

4 Control of solution crystallization and optimization of film morphology

4.1 Substrate surface modification

4.2 Process parameter optimization

4.3 Solvent properties and solute-solvent interaetions Ideal single-crystal film morphology and general regulation strategies

5 Molecular dynamics simulation of thin film deposition and crystallization

6 Conclusion and outlook

Key words

organic semiconductor / single crystal / solution fabrication / thin-film morphology

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Shifeng Ke , Zheyuan Wang , Boyu Peng , et al. Solution Fabrication and Morphology Control of Organic Semiconductor Single-Crystal Thin Films[J]. Progress in Chemistry. 2026, 38(5): 849-869 https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250918

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Funding

Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(LZ24E030003)
National Natural Science Foundation of China(U23A20592)
National Natural Science Foundation of China(52394274)
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