Imaging Damage in Plastic Solar Cells on the Nanoscale David S. Ginger, University of Washington, DMR 1005504

1. Imaging Damage in Plastic Solar Cells on the NanoscaleDavid S. Ginger, University of Washington, DMR 1005504 Plastic solar cells that are solution-processable have the potential to be a low-cost, large-scale energy technology. Recent advances have pushed efficiencies into the 10% range, but concerns about lifetime and durability remain. Our work seeks to understand fundamental processes that govern aging of organic photovoltaic materials. Using a novel microscopy method invented at the University of Washington, we have shown for the first time that it is possible to follow local differences in light-induced damage across a nanostructured plastic solar cell. The results help explain observed changes in overall solar cell performance based on local changes in carrier transport pathways in the nanostructured blend, and thus help us understand how to make nanostructured films with longer-lived performance. By selectively illuminating a nanostructured plastic solar cell with different wavelengths of light, and monitoring their accumulation of charge using time-resolved electrostatic force microscopy both before and after the films have been subjected to damage (by exposure to light and air) we have been able to map how the different domains of the solar cell lose performance at different rates. Shao et al. in preparation (2012)

2. Plastic Solar Cells in WorkDavid S. Ginger, University of Washington, DMR 1005504 • Helped develop content for and staff booths at multiple large local science festivals/fairs including: the Pacific Science Center’s “Paws on Science”, the University of Washington’s 150th anniversary “Husky Fest” celebration, as well as manning out annual booth at the “Shoreline SolarFest” • Mentored REU Student Brittani Love from Shepard University