Efficiency Boost in All‐Small‐Molecule Organic Solar Cells: Insights from the Re‐Ordering Kinetics

Abstract

AbstractAchieving high‐performance in all‐small‐molecule organic solar cells (ASM‐OSCs) significantly relies on precise nanoscale phase separation through domain size manipulation in the active layer. Nonetheless, for ASM‐OSC systems, forging a clear connection between the tuning of domain size and the intricacies of phase separation proves to be a formidable challenge. This study investigates the intricate interplay between domain size adjustment and the creation of optimal phase separation morphology, crucial for ASM‐OSCs’ performance. It is demonstrated that exceptional phase separation in ASM‐OSCs’ active layer is achieved by meticulously controlling the continuity and uniformity of domains via re‐packing process. A series of halogen‐substituted solvents (Fluorobenzene, Chlorobenzene, Bromobenzene, and Iodobenzene) is adopted to tune the re‐packing kinetics, the ASM‐OSCs treated with CB exhibited an impressive 16.2% power conversion efficiency (PCE). The PCE enhancement can be attributed to the gradual crystallization process, promoting a smoothly interconnected and uniformly distributed domain size. This, in turn, leads to a favorable phase separation morphology, enhanced charge transfer, extended carrier lifetime, and consequently, reduced recombination of free charges. The findings emphasize the pivotal role of re‐packing kinetics in achieving optimal phase separation in ASM‐OSCs, offering valuable insights for designing high‐performance ASM‐OSCs fabrication strategies.