Sustainability Considerations for High Performing Organic Solar Cells

Organic semiconductors are an emerging class of materials with various optoelectronic applications. The high commercialisation potential of this technology is evidenced by a few companies that have already launched their products into the market or are working towards this goal. Solution-processed organic electronics have a high potential to reduce the carbon footprint of the semiconductor industry if they are developed further and increase their market share.<br/><br/>In my talk, I will introduce sustainable routes to manufacture solution-processed organic electronics. Particular focus will be given to organic solar cells, which recently attracted immense attention due to the development of a new family of semiconductors that allows highly efficient light harvesting in indoor and outdoor conditions. One current limitation, though, is the use of not eco-friendly solvents and materials during the device development stages. Most organic electronic devices require halogenated and non-halogenated aromatic solvents during their fabrication. For large-scale production and further commercialisation, this is a key limitation. This arises from the fact that organic semiconductors are highly soluble in this category of solvents, which are often carcinogenic or toxic to the human reproductive systems and negatively impact the environment. Here, I will show high-performing organic solar cells fabricated from biomass-based solvents. In addition, recycling considerations are required for any product entering the market. Lastly, I will demonstrate a tool that enables quick solvent screening and the link between organic solar cells' performance in an effort to replace the use of toxic ones.<br/><br/>Overall, this work highlights the importance of replacing harmful chemicals and materials in the organic electronics fabrication stages, resulting in faster and wider commercialisation and new market opportunities.<br/><br/>Panidi, J. <i>et al.</i> Biorenewable Solvents for High-Performance Organic Solar Cells. <i>ACS Energy Lett</i> <b>8</b>, 3038–3047 (2023).