Self-assembly of single dielectric nanoparticle layers and integration in polymer-based solar cells

A single, self-assembled layer of highly uniform dielectric alumina nanoparticles improves the photovoltaic performance of organic semiconductor bulk heterojunction solar cells. The block copolymer based self-assembly approach is readily amenable to the large areas required for solar cell fabrication. A fraction of the performance gain results from incident light scattering which increases active layer absorption and photocurrent output, consistent with device simulations. The nanoparticle layer also roughens the device electrode surface, increasing contact area and improving device fill factor through more efficient charge collection. (C) 2012 American Institute of Physics. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.4744928]