Ecological organic solar cells (e-OSCs) based on cellulose substrates

The project aims to develop novel ecological organic solar cells (e-OSCs) using cellulose as substrates for decreasing impact on environment. Solution processed OSCs can be made on plastic substrates, such as polyester (PET). It is well known that plastics produce pollution to the Earth.

Therefore, replacing plastic substrates with cellulose will make OSCs a long-term ecological sustainable technology for harvesting solar energy. To achieve the aim, we will collaborate with Prof. Min Wu at Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, CAS, China. She will provide us transparent cellulose substrates to build e-OSCs.

First, we will explore different solution processes to adapt cellulose as substrates. Wu’s group will modify cellulose films according to feedback from device evaluation. Then we will optimize the performance of e-OSCs and evaluate stability of the substrates and devices. We believe that this e-OSCs will bring Sweden to the front of ecological sustainable technology.