Polymer photovoltaic cells and the challenges

PMSE 251

Yang Yang, yangy@ucla.edu1, Gang Li1, Vishal Shrotriya, vshro@seas.ucla.edu1, and Yan Yao, yanyao05@gmail.com2. (1) Department of Materials Science and Engineering, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, (2) Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095
Polymer photovoltaic cells represent an attractive alternative energy source with the potential to be large-area panel and low energy cost. However, many technical challenges need to be overcome before commercialization can be realized. In this presentation, we will summarize recent progress on the polymer photovoltaic technology and report research results from UCLA. Particular focus will be our efforts in semi-transparent solar cells and stacking solar cells. By modifying the interface of electrode, we have demonstrated semitransparent solar cells. By stacking a semi-transparent solar cell and a regular solar cell, we can double the Isc or Voc, depending on the wiring of the two cells. This technology represents an easier way to achieve high efficiency polymer photovoltaic cells. Finally, we will discuss the challenges of this fascinating technology, from material requirement, practical manufacture process, and encapsulation technology.
 

Joint PMSE/POLY Poster Session
6:00 PM-8:00 PM, Tuesday, 12 September 2006 Moscone Center -- Hall D, Poster

Division of Polymeric Materials: Science & Engineering

The 232nd ACS National Meeting, San Francisco, CA, September 10-14, 2006