STTR Phase I: Novel organic photovoltaic device construction using carbon nanotube transparent electrodes

This Small Business Technology Transfer Phase I project will determine the feasibility of carbon nanotubes as transparent electrodes in inverted and top tandem organic solar cells. Organic solar cells performance is limited by series resistance, inefficient solar spectrum response, and high conductivity contacts with optical loss. This project will use carbon nanotube based transparent conductors as electrodes in these cells in an attempt to improve their performance. Results from a successful project will impact organic photovoltaic efficiency and cost, providing manufacturers and society with access to renewable energy at lower costs. Lower costs will enable the broad application of this technology to electrical power generation resulting in a reduction of fossil fuel use.