Instigating network structure in bulk heterojunction organic solar cells creating a unique approach in augmenting the optical absorption

Khanum, Khadija K and Ramamurthy, Praveen C (2016) Instigating network structure in bulk heterojunction organic solar cells creating a unique approach in augmenting the optical absorption. In: POLYMER, 91 . pp. 146-155.

PDF Pol_91_146_2016.pdf - Published Version Restricted to Registered users only Download (4MB) | Request a copy

Abstract

In this study, enhancement of device characteristics of poly (3-hexylthiophene): phenyl C61-butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PCBM) by changing active layer film morphology into network structure is elucidated. Electrospraying assisted hierarchical assembly of short fibrils provides network structure. Effects of electrospraying parameters such as solvent, polymer blend concentration, applied voltage, tip to collector distance, flow rate and deposition time are analyzed. Solvent and applied voltage is observed to be the major parameters governing the formation of network structure. The optimized conditions are used to investigate the optical and structural properties in the fabricated device. Reflectance studies showed improvement in light absorption due to increased surface area. Structural characterization studies indicate an increase in crystallinity as compared to spincoated samples. The optimized conditions for the electrospun network structures additionally interpenetrated by P3HT: PCBM solution by spin coating are used to fabricate bulk heterojunction device. Device characteristics showed an increase in short circuit current and thus increase in efficiency from 2.18% to 3.66%. There is a enhancement of 37.5% going from a maximum external quantum efficiency of 40%-55% for electrosprayed and spincoated devices. This work suggests that network morphology could be used to enhance the photovoltaic properties. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Publication:	POLYMER
Publisher:	ELSEVIER SCI LTD
Additional Information:	Copy right for this article belongs to the ELSEVIER SCI LTD, THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, OXON, ENGLAND
Keywords:	Network structure-morphology modification; Electrospraying; Organic solar cells
Department/Centre:	Division of Mechanical Sciences > Materials Engineering (formerly Metallurgy) Division of Interdisciplinary Sciences > Centre for Nano Science and Engineering
Date Deposited:	15 Jun 2016 06:18
Last Modified:	15 Jun 2016 06:18
URI:	http://eprints.iisc.ac.in/id/eprint/53952

Actions (login required)

View Item