Cathode Interlayer Materials (CIMs)

Cathode interlayer materials are employed between the light-absorbing layer and cathode in photovoltaic devices to enhance device performance and stability. Cathode interlayer materials provide energy level alignment between the active layer and the cathode to facilitate efficient electron extraction.

Conjugated polymers are particularly effective cathode interlayer materials due to their favourable energy levels and their ability to be solution processed.

Features and Properties

High conductivity ensures efficient electron transport from the active layer to the cathode reducing resistive losses and improving power conversion efficiency.
Good adhesion to both the active layer and cathode ensures structural integrity and prevents delamination.
Enhanced interfacial properties through improved contact between the active layer and cathode, reducing interfacial barriers and enabling more efficient charge transfer.
Good stability of the interlayer material as well as its resistance to degradation improves the longevity of the photovoltaic device.
Flexible cathode interlayer materials can enable the fabrication of flexible devices.
Transparency in the visible range ensures that the cathode interlayer materials do not interfere with light absorption by the active layer.