Use of poly(3-methylthio)thiophene blends for direct laser tracing and bulk heterojunction solar cells

In this article we demonstrate the use of a blend made of two regioregular polythiophenic derivatives, namely poly(3-methylthio)thiophene and poly(3-hexyl)thiophene, to obtain conductive traces by the simple laser exposure of their thin films to a suitable laser source. The polymeric blend was also tested as a photoactive layer for BHJ solar cells, showing an improved surface morphology and a wider absorption spectrum, thus resulting in an enhanced photovoltaic performance. In the standard condition normally used for the cell preparation, we obtained a 3.16% power conversion efficiency. The device showed good reproducibility and stability over time.