Solution Processed Metal Oxide Interfacial Layers for Organic Solar Cells

Abstract

Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) have been the subject of intense research as a potential source of renewable energy due to their potential for cost effective manufacture through wet chemical processes and potential for lightweight as well as flexibility. Interfacial layers are an important component that influences the performance and stability of OPV devices. This dissertation is focused on exploring wet chemical processes to fabricate sub-micron thick metal oxide interfacial layers for OPVs based on P3HT:PCBM. Various methodologies including thermal decomposition, acid/alkali chemistry and electrodeposition were studied. The effects of high temperature on parasitic resistances, O-vacancies, deep energy levels and capabilities of electrodeposition are discussed for NiO, MoOx?WOx and TiOx interfacial layers in the standard and inverted device architecture.