Toward reliable high performing organic solar cells: Molecules, processing, and monitoring

A steady surge in device efficiencies of organic solar cells (OSCs) along with improvement in associated features, such as stability and facile processing methods, is expected to provide a realistic, feasible commercial option. The introduction of high performing donor and acceptor molecules along with tailored buffer layers has provided the impetus for the resurgence of this field. Further options of ternary and tandem architectures of these OSC systems should push this technology to competitive levels. A major hurdle, which is expected when these devices are evaluated for long-term performance in all weather conditions, is the level of degradation. We examine and address these stability-limiting factors in this perspective article. Modifications in microstructure/morphology and interfaces with time and energy levels defining the molecules form some of the critical intrinsic degradation pathways. Various strategies that have been used to limit the associated pathways of degradation of the active layer will be discussed. One such strategy is electric field-assisted thermal annealing treatment, which concomitantly also brings in a favorable vertical phase segregated active layer morphology. We also emphasize the utility of photocurrent noise measurements to monitor the level of degradation and possibly forecast the trajectory of long-term performance of OSCs.