Size-dependent behavior of polymer solar cells measured under partial illumination

We systemically investigate the size-dependent behavior of organic photovoltaics (OPVs) tested under partial illumination. An illumination mask was hypothesized to limit uncertainty associated with device size and illumination conditions when measurements are conducted on laboratory scales. Introducing the illumination mask into the measurement improves the accuracy of JSC; however partial illumination will result in a decrease in VOC and an increase in FF. This last observation is explained by diodes contributing both light and dark currents in the measurement. In addition to loss due to the energy required to separate bound excitons, these results suggest that non-optimized photo–dark current ratio could be another reason why measured VOC is less than ideal VOC.

Graphical AbstractFigure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Systemically investigate size-dependent behavior of organic photovoltaics (OPVs) tested under partial illumination.
► Introducing illumination mask into the measurement improves accuracy of JSC and EQE.
► VOC decreases and FF increases as lighted/dark area ratio decreases.
► Last observation is explained by diodes contributing both light and dark currents in the measurement.