Tertiary Amine Hole Transport Layer for Solar Cell Moisture Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solid-type dye sensitized solar cells fail to generate power under room light conditions due to the degradation of the hole transport layer when exposed to high temperatures, which is necessary for removing residual moisture from wet film-forming processes used in their production.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a tertiary amine compound with a tribenzyl backbone into the hole transport layer of the solar cell, which enhances the internal resistance and maintains photoelectric conversion efficiency even after exposure to high temperatures, allowing the solar cell to function effectively under weak light sources like indoor light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If wet film-forming process is used to form the hole transport layer, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but residual moisture remains in the film which deteriorates solar cell performance
Solution Approach 1:
The hole transport layer is designed with inherent moisture resistance from the outset, using hydrophobic materials and optimized film structure that prevent moisture ingress before it can cause damage. This preliminary protective action eliminates the need for subsequent high-temperature heating while maintaining performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the chemical and physical parameters of the hole transport layer by using specific hydrophobic materials (such as polythiophene derivatives with fluorinated side chains) and controlling film morphology to achieve low moisture absorption. This parameter change allows the layer to withstand ambient moisture without requiring thermal treatment.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the film is heated to 120°C or higher to acquire reliable durability, then durability is improved, but solar cell performance significantly degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The hole transport layer is engineered with built-in thermal stability and moisture resistance from the beginning, using materials with high glass transition temperatures and low moisture absorption. This preliminary design allows the solar cell to achieve durable performance without subjecting the sensitive organic layers to high-temperature processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite material structures combining hydrophobic polymers (such as PEDOT:PSS with fluorinated additives or polythiophene derivatives) with inorganic moisture barrier layers. This composite approach provides both durability and performance by protecting the sensitive organic components while maintaining charge transport functionality.
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 solar cell maintains excellent photoelectric conversion characteristics and power generation under indoor light conditions even after being heated to high temperatures, improving both open circuit voltage and short circuit current density without deteriorating output.
Implementation Method 1
Incorporating a tertiary amine compound with a tribenzyl backbone into the hole transport layer of the solar cell, which enhances the internal resistance and maintains photoelectric conversion efficiency even after exposure to high temperatures
Implementation Method 2
a photoelectric conversion element includes a first electrode, a hole blocking layer containing the above tertiary amine compound, an electron transport layer, a hole transport layer, and a second electrode
Data Source
AI summary
A tertiary amine compound is provided. The tertiary amine compound is represented by the following general formula (1):where each of Ar1 and Ar2 independently represents a benzene ring having an alkyl group or an alkoxy group, an unsubstituted benzene ring, a naphthalene ring having an alkyl group or an alkoxy group, or an unsubstituted naphthalene ring.