High-efficiency organic solar cells using semiconducting polymers

Abstract

The organic solar cell consisting of semiconducting polymers is an emerging device that can enable lightweight, large-area, flexible, low-cost and low-energy fabrication, in contrast to silicon technology. Intensive studies have successfully improved the power conversion efficiency over the past decade, exceeding a milestone value of 10% in single-junction cells. However, improving the efficiency as well as the reliability remain formidable challenges to putting them on the market. Materials development is one of the most important issues. In this perspective, I will summarize the recent progress on the development of new semiconducting polymers and their solar cells as conducted in our group.