Recyclable Network Polymer for Stable Organic Solar Cell Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Organic solar cells are prone to degradation and environmental pollution due to defects in the photoactive layer caused by external stimuli, and improper disposal of electronic waste generates toxic chemicals.
Innovation Solution
A network polymer is developed by recovering a monomer from a recyclable conjugated polymer and forming a network polymer through covalent bonding with a cross-linking agent, which is then used to create an organic electronic device with excellent mechanical and electrical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional organic solar cells are used, then photoelectric conversion efficiency can be achieved, but the photoactive layer is prone to defects and degradation due to external stimuli
Solution Approach 1:
The photoactive layer is segmented into two separate layers: a p-type semiconductor layer and an n-type semiconductor layer, which are then mixed to form the bulk heterojunction structure. This segmentation allows for better control of phase separation and reduces defects caused by external stimuli while maintaining high photoelectric conversion efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining conjugated polymers with fullerene derivatives in a bulk heterojunction structure. The composite nature of the photoactive layer, consisting of electron donor and electron acceptor materials, improves reliability by creating a more stable and defect-resistant structure against external stimuli
2Productivity
If organic solar cells are disposed of improperly, then device replacement can occur, but toxic chemicals are generated causing environmental pollution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements monomer recovery from the photoactive layer through solvent extraction and precipitation processes. The recovered monomers are purified and can be reused to fabricate new organic solar cells, eliminating the need for disposal and preventing toxic chemical generation from electronic waste
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical state parameters of the photoactive layer materials by converting them from polymer form back to monomer form through controlled degradation and extraction processes. This parameter change enables recovery and reuse, transforming waste materials into valuable resources
3Reliability
If the photoactive layer is made more resistant to external stimuli, then reliability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-mixing the p-type and n-type semiconductors in specific ratios before fabricating the photoactive layer. This preliminary mixing ensures uniform distribution and optimal phase separation, achieving high reliability without requiring complex post-processing or multi-step manufacturing procedures
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The network polymer exhibits excellent mechanical and electrical properties, is eco-friendly due to its recyclability, and maintains high efficiency and thermal stability in organic solar cells.
Implementation Method 1
hydrolyzing a recyclable conjugated polymer to recover a monomer
Implementation Method 2
forming a network polymer by covalent bonding of the monomer and a cross-linking agent
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a network polymer and a manufacturing method thereof. An object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide a network polymer that can recover and recycle a key monomer from a polymer with excellent decomposability and is formed therefrom to have excellent mechanical and electrical properties, and a method of manufacturing the same. The network polymer according to one embodiment of the present invention is recycled from a polymer with excellent decomposability and thus is eco-friendly, and exhibits the effect of having excellent mechanical and electrical properties.