Polymer-Fullerene Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells

TL;DR

This review discusses the physical principles, current performance, limitations, and future prospects of polymer-fullerene bulk heterojunction organic solar cells, emphasizing their potential for low-cost, flexible energy solutions.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art, challenges, and innovative concepts for improving stability and efficiency in organic solar cells.

Findings

Organic solar cells have promising energy balance and low-cost manufacturing potential.

Current limitations include stability and efficiency challenges.

Novel concepts are being explored to enhance material stability and power conversion efficiency.

Abstract

Organic solar cells have the potential to be low-cost and efficient solar energy converters, with a promising energy balance. They are made from carbon-based semiconductors, which exhibit favourable light absorption and charge generation properties, and can be manufactured by low temperature processes such as printing from solvent-based inks, which are compatible with flexible plastic substrates or even paper. In this review, we will present an overview of the physical function of organic solar cells, their state-of-the-art performance and limitations, as well as novel concepts to achieve a better material stability and higher power conversion efficiencies. We will also briefly review processing and cost in view of the market potential.