Block copolymer strategies for solar cell technology

Paul D. Topham, A.J. Parnell, R.C. Hiorns

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

A simple overview of the methods used and the expected benefits of block copolymers in organic photovoltaic devices is given in this review. The description of the photovoltaic process makes it clear how the detailed self-assembly properties of block copolymers can be exploited. Organic photovoltaic technology, an inexpensive, clean and renewable energy source, is an extremely promising option for replacing fossil fuels. It is expected to deliver printable devices processed on flexible substrates using high-volume techniques. Such devices, however, currently lack the long-term stability and efficiency to allow organic photovoltaics to surpass current technologies. Block copolymers are envisaged to help overcome these obstacles because of their long term structural stability and their solid-state morphology being of the appropriate dimensions to efficiently perform charge collection and transfer to electrodes.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1131-1156
Number of pages26
JournalJournal of Polymer Science: Part B - Polymer Physics
Volume49
Issue number16
Early online date28 Jun 2011
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Aug 2011

Keywords

  • block copolymers
  • nanotechnology
  • organic photovoltaics
  • photophysics
  • self-assembly
  • solar cells

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Block copolymer strategies for solar cell technology'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this