Progress in Materials, Solution Processes, and Long-Term Stability for Large-Area Organic Photovoltaics

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Energy Conversion
• Photovoltaics

Background:

• Organic solar cells (OSCs) utilizing bulk heterojunctions (BHJs) offer promising energy conversion.
• Nonfullerene acceptors have driven power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) beyond 17% in small-area devices.
• Current research predominantly focuses on high-efficiency small-area unit cells, often fabricated via spin coating.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of advancements enabling the transition of organic photovoltaics (OPVs) from laboratory-scale devices to industrial-scale modules.
• To address the need for efficient technologies that maintain performance and stability over larger active areas.
• To guide the development of practical, large-area OPV applications.

Main Methods:

• Reviewing material developments for improved active layer thickness tolerance and large-area adaptability.
• Discussing morphology control strategies using diverse coating techniques for large active areas.
• Summarizing research on OPV degradation mechanisms and long-term stability enhancement, including evaluation procedures.

Main Results:

• Identification of materials suitable for thicker active layers and large-area processing.
• Exploration of various coating techniques for consistent morphology control over large areas.
• Progress in understanding OPV degradation pathways and developing methods for improved operational stability.

Conclusions:

• Successful scaling of organic solar cells requires advancements in materials, processing, and stability.
• Large-area adaptability and consistent morphology are crucial for efficient industrial-scale OPVs.
• Further research into degradation mechanisms and reliable evaluation is essential for commercial viability.