Low vacuum process for polymer solar cells: Effect of TiO(x) interlayer

Abstract

Here, the effect of integration of a TiO(x) interlayer on low vacuum-processible organic-based solar cells is reported. Devices with an Al electrode prepared at a low vacuum condition shows lower efficiency compared to those with an Al electrode prepared at a high vacuum condition because the interface between the active layer and Al electrode is too rough. When a TiO(x) layer is inserted between the active layer and Al electrode of the device, the cell efficiency is regained and much less dependent on the level of vacuum during Al deposition so that it may be possible to develop low cost process.