Electron acceptor degradation is a major cause of performance instability in organic solar cells and a barrier to their commercialization. In this study, we used a tape stripping technique to selectively remove electron acceptors from the surface of donorblend films. Near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy revealed that only 6% of the acceptor component remained on the film surface after stripping, creating a polymer-rich surface. This optimized morphology prevents direct contact between electron acceptors and oxygen or water molecules. Additionally, the polymer-rich surface significantly improves adhesion between the photoactive layer and the top metal electrode, preventing electrode delamination. Our findings demonstrate that selective removal of electron acceptors near the top electrode enhances the durability of organic solar cells, allowing them to function underwater without encapsulation.-Scientific Journal cover design by scapiens
[Scientific Journal cover design] Low-Thermal-Budget Fluorite-Structure Ferroelectrics for Future Electronic Device Applications
In article number 2100028, Jiyoung Kim, Si Joon Kim, and their team review key factors involved in developing fluorite-structure ferroelectrics