Enhanced charge extraction in inverted hybrid photovoltaic cells assisted by graphene nanoflakes
Journal
Journal of Materials Chemistry
Journal Volume
21
Journal Issue
43
Pages
17462-17467
Date Issued
2011
Author(s)
Sung, Y.-M.
Hsu, F.-C.
Wang, D.-Y.
Wang, I.-S.
Chen, C.-C.
Liao, H.-C.
Su, W.-F.
Chen, Y.-F.
Abstract
We use graphene nanoflakes (GNFs) to greatly enhance the charge extraction out of a photoactive blend in inverted hybrid poly(3-hexylthiophene):(6,6)- phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PCBM)/ZnO-nanorod photovoltaic cells. Instead of a continuous film, solution processed GNFs with dimensions less than 200 nm × 200 nm are homogeneously scattered on top of the well-aligned ZnO-nanorods. Those GNFs play key roles, they serve as an electron drain to collect electron flow out to ZnO-nanorods, enhance the carrier mobility of the device and promote holes to drift toward the surface in contact with the cathode. As a result, there is a large enhancement in photocurrent and photovoltage of 35% and 27%, respectively, leading to an improved cell efficiency by up to about 100%. © 2011 The Royal Society of Chemistry.
SDGs
Other Subjects
Cell efficiency; Charge extraction; Continuous films; Electron flow; Hybrid photovoltaic cells; Methyl esters; Nanoflakes; Photo-voltage; Poly (3-hexylthiophene); Solution-processed; Well-aligned; Butyric acid; Fatty acids; Graphene; Nanorods; Photoelectrochemical cells; Photovoltaic cells; Photovoltaic effects; Zinc oxide; Carrier mobility
Type
journal article