  We introduce the polymer analysis and discovery array (PANDA), an automated
system for high-throughput electrodeposition and functional characterization of
polymer films. The PANDA is a custom, modular, and low-cost system based on a
CNC gantry that we have modified to include a syringe pump, potentiostat, and
camera with a telecentric lens. This system can perform fluid handling,
electrochemistry, and transmission optical measurements on samples in custom
96-well plates that feature transparent and conducting bottoms. We begin by
validating this platform through a series of control fluid handling and
electrochemistry experiments to quantify the repeatability, lack of
cross-contamination, and accuracy of the system. As a proof-of-concept
experimental campaign to study the functional properties of a model polymer
film, we optimize the electrochromic switching of electrodeposited
poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) films. In
particular, we explore the monomer concentration, deposition time, and
deposition voltage using an array of experiments selected by Latin hypercube
sampling. Subsequently, we run an active learning campaign based upon Bayesian
optimization to find the processing conditions that lead to the highest
electrochromic switching of PEDOT:PSS. This self-driving lab integrates optical
and electrochemical characterization to constitute a novel, automated approach
for studying functional polymer films.
