Morphological Optimization of the Active Layer from Film Formation Kinetics in Organic Solar Cells

TL;DR

This paper reviews how controlling film formation processes can optimize the structure of active layers in organic solar cells.

Contribution

The paper introduces a systematic review of kinetic mechanisms and in situ techniques for morphological control in organic solar cells.

Findings

Regulating processing parameters like temperature and solvents affects crystallization and phase separation.

In situ characterization techniques are essential for understanding film formation kinetics.

The paper outlines challenges and future directions for improving solar cell performance through morphology control.

Abstract

A deep understanding
of the structural evolution is critical for
the precise morphological optimization of the active layer in organic
solar cells. This perspective systematically reviews the kinetic mechanisms
of film formation and emphasizes that regulating processing parameters,
such as deposition temperature, processing solvent, and additives,
can effectively govern crystallization and phase separation during
layer deposition. Advanced in situ characterization
techniques are highlighted as indispensable tools for real-time decoding
of these coupled kinetic pathways. We also summarize these techniques,
covering their principles, detectable structural information, and
inherent limitations and constraints, thereby guiding the selection
of appropriate in situ tools. Finally, we outline
the key challenges in the field and provide insights into future research
aimed at advancing device performance through targeted morphological
control.

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