Organic solar cells based on non-fullerene acceptors

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Organic Electronics
• Photovoltaics

Background:

• Organic solar cells (OSCs) have historically relied on fullerene acceptors for over 20 years.
• Recent advancements have shifted focus to non-fullerene (NF) acceptors, driving rapid development in the field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the opportunities presented by non-fullerene acceptors in organic solar cells.
• To discuss the challenges hindering the practical application of NF OSCs.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature on non-fullerene organic solar cells.
• Analysis of device physics and photophysics in NF OSC systems.

Main Results:

• NF OSCs have achieved power conversion efficiencies exceeding 13%, surpassing fullerene-based devices.
• NF acceptors demonstrate significant tunability in absorption spectra and electron energy levels.
• NF OSCs exhibit low voltage losses and high current generation, indicating novel device physics.

Conclusions:

• Non-fullerene acceptors represent a significant advancement in organic solar cell technology.
• The tunability of NF acceptors opens new avenues for device optimization and performance.
• Addressing current challenges is crucial for the widespread practical adoption of NF OSCs.