Solution-processed polymer–silver nanowire top electrodes for inverted semi-transparent solar cells

We present a transparent, fully solution-processed top anode system comprising a thin, conductive polymer interlayer below a silver nanowire mesh for efficient organic electronic devices. We fabricate inverted semi-transparent polymer solar cells exhibiting power conversion efficiencies that are comparable to devices incorporating an opaque electrode. By means of scanning electron microscopy and light beam induced photocurrent measurements we show that the thin polymer interlayer facilitates charge extraction from the active layer and efficient transport to the metallic nanowire mesh.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► We present polymer solar cells comprising silver nanowire top electrodes. ► Similar efficiencies of semi-transparent and opaque reference devices. ► Both buffer and nanowires are solution-deposited directly atop the active layer. ► The electrodes exhibit sheet resistances of 8.5 Ω/□ and transparencies above 80%. ► Very good charge collection properties verified by light beam induced current maps.