Annealing-free, air-processed and high-efficiency polymer solar cells fabricated by a dip coating process

We have used dip coating method to fabricate polymer solar cells (PSC) with an active layer composed of a blend of poly(3-hexylthiophene) and [6,6]-phenyl-C61 butyric acid methyl ester. With optimized conditions, pinhole-free and highly self-assembly active films were obtained, resulting in a narrow distribution of the device parameter. The performance of the dip coated devices (4.03%) is comparable to that of the spin coated devices (4.00%). Moreover, we show that dip coating is a feasible technology to deposit all solution processable layers of PSC, including the hole-transporting layer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) as well and demonstrate dip coated hole-transporting layer and active layer devices with an efficiency of 3.49%. Our research may provide an alternative way for preparation of roll-to-roll processed organic electronics.

Graphical abstractHigh efficiency, air-processed and annealing-free polymer solar cells fabricated by dip coating process have been achieved. This process may provide an alternative way for preparation of roll-to-roll processed organic electronics.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► High-efficiency PSCs by dip coating were obtained in air condition. ► High-quality active films result in a narrow distribution of the device parameter. ► The dip coated device performance is comparable to that of the spin coated device. ► Dip coating provides a way for roll-to-roll processed organic electronics.