Organic Electrochemical Transistors (OECTs) - Hands-on Experiment and Teaching Materials

Dustin Freimuth¹, Xuqiang Xu², Jana Zaumseil², Silvia Janietz¹ and Amitabh Banerji^1,

¹University of Potsdam, Chemistry Education, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 24-25, 14476 Potsdam, Germany

²Heidelberg University, Institute for Physical Chemistry, Im Neuenheimer Feld 253, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany

Cite this paper:
Dustin Freimuth, Xuqiang Xu, Jana Zaumseil, Silvia Janietz and Amitabh Banerji. Organic Electrochemical Transistors (OECTs) - Hands-on Experiment and Teaching Materials. World Journal of Chemical Education. 2026; 14(1):11-17. doi: 10.12691/wjce-14-1-2

Abstract

Organic Electrochemical Transistors (OECTs) represent a cutting-edge technology with significant potential in healthcare, electronics, and environmental monitoring. This manuscript presents the development of a low-cost, hands-on OECT experiment designed for highschool education, bridging the gap between advanced research and classroom learning. The didactically tailored OECT prototype replaces complex fabrication methods with accessible materials, such as silver paste electrodes and drop-cast PEDOT:PSS, while maintaining functionality. The device operates as a switch, visualized through a propeller motor, and achieves an average ON/OFF ratio of 475. A pilot study with 12th-grade students demonstrated the experiment's robustness and educational effectiveness, with post-intervention knowledge tests revealing significant learning gains. Supplementary materials, including an animation and lab protocols, enhance understanding of OECT principles. The study underscores the feasibility of integrating modern research topics into curricula, paving the way for future developments like logic gates and expanded experimental kits. This work highlights the potential of OECTs as a tool for engaging students in organic electronics and fostering STEM interest.

Keywords:
Curriculum Innovation organic electronics semiconductors transistors PEDOT:PSS

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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