The development of low cost photovoltaics would have profound effects on our energy infrastructure and society. Next generation photovoltaics such as organic photovoltaics hold the potential for low manufacturing costs but are limited by their low efficiency. Organic photovoltaics typically consist of a nanoscale blend of two organic materials where the structure of the blend controls the efficiency of the cell. Current measurements do not have sufficient resolution and sensitivity to satisfactorily characterize these materials. This project will develop new measurements using a combination of X ray and neutron scattering, and various spectroscopies to determine the critical aspects of structure that currently limit energy conversion efficiency.

 

key words

Photovoltaics; Polymer; Microstructure; X-ray diffraction; Organic electronics; Energy;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants