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Ternary PM6:Y6 Solar Cells with Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Laura Wieland1,2, Han Li1, Xuning Zhang3
1Institute of Nanotechnology Karlsruhe Institute of Technology Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen Germany.
Small Science
|April 11, 2025
Summary
Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) enhance organic solar cell performance by extending light absorption. Optimizing SWCNT concentration is crucial to balance improved absorption with active layer morphology.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Organic Electronics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Organic solar cells (OSCs) commonly utilize fullerene derivatives as electron acceptors.
- Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) can function as electron donors in type II heterojunction OSCs.
- Ternary blends offer potential for enhanced OSC performance through synergistic effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the performance of organic solar cells incorporating (6,5) SWCNTs with C60 and nonfullerene acceptors.
- To investigate the impact of SWCNTs as a ternary component with PM6:Y6 donor/acceptor system in both bilayer and bulk heterojunction architectures.
- To understand the trade-offs associated with SWCNT incorporation for light absorption and morphology control.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication and characterization of bilayer organic solar cells using (6,5) SWCNTs, C60, and nonfullerene acceptors.
- Fabrication and characterization of ternary blend organic solar cells (PM6:Y6:SWCNT) in both bilayer and bulk heterojunction configurations.
- Analysis of light absorption extension into the infrared spectrum and investigation of solvent-induced morphological changes.
Main Results:
- SWCNTs combined with C60 and nonfullerene acceptors were evaluated in bilayer devices.
- Ternary devices using SWCNTs with the PM6:Y6 donor/acceptor system demonstrated extended light absorption into the infrared region.
- Achieving optimal performance requires balancing SWCNT concentration for enhanced light absorption against potential negative impacts on active layer morphology due to solvent effects.
Conclusions:
- SWCNTs can extend the absorption spectrum of organic solar cells, particularly when blended with established donor/acceptor pairs like PM6:Y6.
- The concentration of SWCNTs is a critical parameter, necessitating a balance between boosting light absorption and maintaining favorable morphology of the photoactive layer.
- Further research is needed to optimize SWCNT integration for efficient and stable organic solar cell devices.
