Recent progress in semiconducting block copolymers suited for organic photovoltaics
Journal
Chemistry Letters
Journal Volume
55
Journal Issue
6
Start Page
upag104
ISSN
03667022
Date Issued
2026-06
Author(s)
Abstract
Recent advances in organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices have pushed power conversion efficiencies beyond 20%; however, the precise control of bulk heterojunction morphology remains a critical challenge that urgently needs to be addressed. In this Highlight Review, we summarize recent research progress regarding semiconducting block copolymers in OPV applications, with particular emphasis on bottom-up polymer synthesis strategies. We describe the development of condensative chain polymerization and nonstoichiometric polycondensation systems, which enable the synthesis of structurally well-defined π-conjugated polymers and block copolymers. Furthermore, we discuss their applications as compatibilizers, single-component photoactive materials, and stretchable semiconducting polymers. These approaches provide new strategies for controlling nanoscale phase-separated structures and improving both device performance and mechanical durability. This review highlights the potential of semiconducting block copolymers as key materials for next-generation OPV technologies.
Subjects
block copolymer
organic photovoltaics
π-conjugated polymer
Publisher
Oxford University Press
Type
review article