From Solution to Thin Film: Molecular Assembly of π-Conjugated Systems and Impact on (Opto)electronic Properties

Azzaya Khasbaatar, Zhuang Xu, Jong Hoon Lee, Gonzalo Campillo-Alvarado, Changhyun Hwang, Brandon N. Onusaitis, Ying Diao

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

The assembly of conjugated organic molecules from solution to solid-state plays a critical role in determining the thin film morphology and optoelectronic properties of solution-processed organic electronics and photovoltaics. During evaporative solution processing, π-conjugated systems can assemble via various forms of intermolecular interactions, forming distinct aggregate structures that can drastically tune the charge transport landscape in the solid-state. In blend systems composed of donor polymer and acceptor molecules, assembly of neat materials couples with phase separation and crystallization processes, leading to complex phase transition pathways which govern the blend film morphology. In this review, we provide an in-depth review of molecular assembly processes in neat conjugated polymers and nonfullerene small molecule acceptors and discuss their impact on the thin film morphology and optoelectronic properties. We then shift our focus to blend systems relevant to organic solar cells and discuss the fundamentals of phase transition and highlight how the assembly of neat materials and processing conditions can affect blend morphology and device performance.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)8395-8487
Number of pages93
JournalChemical reviews
Volume123
Issue number13
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 12 2023

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemistry

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