P3HT:PCBM Bulk Heterojunction Organic Solar Cell : Performance Optimization and Application of Inkjet Printing

Abstract: Organic solar cells have emerged as an important cheap photovoltaic technology. In this thesis work, a study of P3HT:PCBM heterojunction solar cells was presented. By incorporation of photo-active film slow growth, PEDOT:PSS (Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate)) de-water treatment and application of highly conductive PEDOT:PSS (HC-PEDOT), a maximum PCE (power conversion efficiency) of 4% was achieved. Inkjet printing technique was on the other hand introduced into fabrication process. The morphological, electrical and optical properties of printed HC-PEDOT were investigated. Fine silver girds with well-designed pattern, combining with a transparent thin film of HC-PEDOT, was inkjet-printed to form the anode of solar cells. A functional device with printed anode and printed photo-active layer was demonstrated, showing the possibility of realizing fully printed organic solar cells.