Copper-based metallorganic complexes as sensitizers for polymeric solar cells

In this work we have explored the effect of the addition of four different copper(I)-based scorpionate complexes into the active layer of P3HT:PCBM-based solar cells. The copper(I)-based complexes, previously tested for their high antioxidant activity in solution, evidenced a moderate stabilization of the cell parameters when used in solid state. In particular, some complexes degrade more rapidly and are apparently of no aid in prolonging the cell lifetime when compared to a standard P3HT:PCBM-based organic cell. The analysis of these preliminary results have suggested a possible route to the design and synthesis of new scorpionate complexes having phosphane coligands, more active in the solid state against the photooxydation occurring to the conjugated polymer when the cell is exposed to both light and oxygen.