TFB:TPDSi2 Interfacial Layer As A PEDOT:PSS Replacement in Organic Photovoltaic Cells

Background: This technology obviates the need for the commonly employed PEDOT:PSS layer and significantly improves the performance of MDMO-PPV:PCBM bulk heterojunction (BHJ) solar cells. While organic photovoltaics (OPV) offer advantages over traditional inorganic photovoltaic cells including fabrication on lightweight flexible substrates and use of lower cost spin-coating and printing processes it lacks sufficient power conversion efficiency for commercial use. Technology Description: This invention enhances BHJ solar cell efficiency by addressing several areas critical to device performance. A unique TFB:TPDSi2 blend spin-coated from an organic solvent and air cured to form a covalently bonded film on ITO provides this function. The cured material is transparent above ~ 400 nm resists solvent attack in subsequent processing and retains adhesion above 60°C. Importantly the interlayer components possess aligned energy levels which permits holes to travel efficiently to the anode while preventing electron leakage. This feature results in a vast improvement in power conversion efficiency. This unique combination of interlayer properties provides a basis for significantly improved BHJ solar cell devices. Applications: 1) Organic photovoltaics 2) Solar cells Patent Status: US7888593