Block copolymers for photovoltaics

Abstract

Photovoltaic energy conversion is arguably the most promising option for supplying renewable, carbon-neutral energy on a global scale. In order to reach grid parity, however, costs must be reduced substantially. Inexpensive materials generally exhibit efficiencies too low for practical application, but by controlling the morphology on the nanoscale there are opportunities to achieve significant improvements in this area. Block copolymers, which naturally self-assemble into periodic ordered nanostructures, can be utilized in diverse ways to control morphology, ranging from active layers to structure directors to a combination of these methodologies.