An unsymmetrical non-fullerene acceptor: synthesis via direct heteroarylation, self-assembly, and utility as a low energy absorber in organic photovoltaic cells

Chem Commun (Camb). 2017 Sep 12;53(73):10168-10171. doi: 10.1039/c7cc05836e.

Abstract

This study reports on the design and synthesis of an unsymmetrical π-conjugated organic molecule composed of perylene diimide, thienyl diketopyrrolopyrrole, and indoloquinoxaline pieced together using direct heteroarylation. This material demonstrates unprecedented response in the thin-film upon post-deposition solvent vapor annealing, resulting in dramatic red-shifts in optical absorption. Such changes were utilized to enhance photocurrent generation in P3HT based organic solar cells.