Researchers from Shenzhen Technology University and collaborative institutions, led by Professor Guangye Zhang, have achieved a major milestone in organic solar cell (OSC) technology. Their latest work, published in Nano-Micro Letters , introduces a novel additive engineering strategy that enables 20.0% power conversion efficiency (PCE) in binary OSCs processed entirely with non-halogenated solvents . This advancement not only sets a new benchmark for toluene-processed OSCs but also offers a scalable and eco-friendly approach aligned with industrialization needs.
Why This Innovation Matters
Key Innovation: Additive-Guided Secondary Nucleation Control
To address the longstanding challenge of morphology control in sequentially processed OSCs (SqP), the team introduced two isomeric additives , ODBC and PDBC, into either the donor or acceptor layers. These additives regulate the swelling and aggregation behaviors of the active materials through non-covalent interactions , allowing for precise modulation of film morphology.
Unprecedented Device Performance
Mechanistic Insights and Morphology Control
Robust Stability and Broad Applicability
Future Outlook
This study establishes a practical, scalable pathway toward high-efficiency, halogen-free OSCs by leveraging additive-induced secondary nucleation control in the SqP framework. The use of isomeric additives like ODBC offers a powerful handle for morphology tuning, enabling enhanced crystallinity, charge transport, and long-term stability. With compatibility across multiple systems and processing conditions, this strategy holds promise for industrial-scale, environmentally friendly production of organic photovoltaics.
Stay tuned for more from Professor Guangye Zhang’s team as they continue to push the frontiers of green, high-performance organic solar technologies！
Nano-Micro Letters
Experimental study
Achieving 20% Toluene-Processed Binary Organic Solar Cells via Secondary Regulation of Donor Aggregation in Sequential Processing
1-Apr-2025