New conjugated polymers for plastic solar cells

Abstract

The present review gives an overview of four of the most promising classes of conjugated polymers for plastic solar cells. The latest developments on poly(2,7-carbazole)s, poly(1,4-diketopyrrolopyrrole)s, poly(thieno[3,4-b]thiophene)s, and poly(thieno[3,4-c]pyrrole-4,6-dione)s are reported. More precisely, the synthesis and the physical and electronic properties of the polymers are discussed. Devices characteristics such as the open-circuit voltage, the fill factor, the short-circuit current density and the power conversion efficiency are also addressed. In summary, this review wants to give the reader a highlight of the very latest improvements in the organic photovoltaic field.