Exciton-induced Degradation of Interfaces in Organic Optoelectronic Devices

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The last two decades have witnessed a strong interest in organic semiconductor-based optoelectronic devices for utilization in various applications including solid state lighting, flat panel displays and solar cells. This interest is motivated by a number of key advantages that organic semiconductors have, such as (i) the possibility to obtain light emission in a wide range of colors (ii) easier and cheaper fabrication including the ability to fabricate them on different substrates and in large areas, and (iii) their unique ability to realize mechanically flexible and transparent devices for next generation electronics. Despite their advantages, devices utilizing these materials, such as Organic Light Emitting Devices (OLEDs), Organic Solar Cells (OSCs) generally have lower durability in comparison to those based on traditional materials. We recently discovered that exposure to light, either from external sources, as in case of OSCs, or to light produced by the device itself, as in case of OLEDs, causes significant changes in these devices, especially at interfaces between different materials. This previously unknown phenomenon appears to be responsible for the fast deterioration in efficiency in these devices. The proposed research aims to uncover the factors behind this phenomenon and to develop approaches to control them, thus improve device service life. The research will utilize a number of experimental techniques pioneered by the applicant and will build on findings from his previous work in this area. Seven graduate students will participate in this research. The research results will be critical for future development of more stable OLEDs and OSCs, which will be pursued in collaboration with Canadian industrial partners. It will, therefore, provide those partners with a competitive edge in an emerging technology of tremendous potential for next generation electronics and energy conversion devices. The research will also allow training of a new “breed” of Canadian researchers who will acquire expertise in an emerging technology that has the potential to enable new products and market opportunities.