Simple Method for Creating Hydrophobic Ultraflexible Photovoltaics

Optoelectronic devices, such as photodetectors and photovoltaics, are susceptible to surface contamination or water damage that can lead to reductions in performance or stability. Applying superhydrophobic coatings to these devices can introduce self-cleaning behavior and water resistance to extend their lifetime and improve their efficiency. However, existing methods for inducing superhydrophobicity have not been compatible with ultraflexible devices because of their thickness and complexity requirements. In this work, we introduce a procedure for inducing superhydrophobic and self-cleaning behavior on ultraflexible components using a combination of shrinkage-induced wrinkles and a low-surface-energy coating. We apply these techniques to an ultraflexible organic photovoltaics and demonstrate excellent hydrophobicity and self-cleaning behavior.