Organic Photovoltaics (OPVs)

The global energy demand is growing at a rapid rate while current non-renewable energy resources are being depleted. Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) present a possible solution for the increasing demand for energy. Unlike their inorganic counterparts, OPVs are flexible, lightweight, transparent, and can be manufactured in high volume, such as roll-to-roll manufacturing. They are typically small molecule- or polymer-based.

A small molecule-based solar cell consists of a donor (D) and acceptor (A). During light absorption, an exciton forms and travels to the D/A interface where a charge transfer occurs. During charge transfer, the hole and electron separate and are moved through the D/A materials to be extracted by the electrodes, then transferring into the outer circuit.