The application of bis-terpyridine zinc (II) complexes in LECs, OLEDs and DSCs

Abstract

This thesis concerns the applications of easy to synthesize zinc(II) bis-terpyridine complexes in light emitting electrochemical cells (LECs), organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) and dye sensitized solar cells (DSCs). Furthermore, the design and synthesis of new ligands and dyes for DSCs is presented. Chapter 1 gives an introduction about the current energy situation and the necessity of a change in energy usage. Chapter 2 describes general experimental methods and the instruments used during the project. Chapter 3 shows the application of zinc(II) complexes in LECs and OLEDs and the optimizations done in the manufacturing process. Chapter 4 is about the application of zinc(II) bis-terpyridine complexes in DSCs. Furthermore, a new stepwise method for the dye assembly on the semiconductor is introduced. Chapter 5 discusses the problem of electron recombination in DSCs and presents potential solutions for zinc(II) bis-terpyridine dyes. Chapter 6 describes the design and synthesis of a versatile donor – acceptor building block based on the benzothiadiazole (BTZ) unit and its use in a terpyridine based and an organic dye for DSCs. Chapter 7 reports a design and possible synthetic pathway for two new anchoring ligands, based on the BTZ unit, for DSCs. Chapter 8 shows the development and preparation of ZnO electrodes for the use in DSCs. Their performance is evaluated in combination with various dyes. Chapter 9 concludes the thesis and gives a short outlook for further work in the field of zinc(II) based DSCs.