The future application of low-cost, polymer-based energy harvesting devices depends on our ability to improve their power conversion efficiencies (PCEs). Previous studies have focused on the inclusion of nanoparticles into the polymer matrix in an attempt to increase PCE values. However, these attempts have failed to increase PCEs over that of traditional solar cells, which are comprised of expensive photosensitive materials such as silicon. To overcome this, we will attempt to covalently link the polymer backbone to a nanoparticle core which is capable of multiple exciton generation (MEG), thereby making the system more efficient by effectively removing the interfaces responsible for their loss of efficiency. Experimental protocols are being conducted to synthesize 5-(3’-thienyl)-1-mercaptopentane (53T1MP) from 3-bromothiophene, for subsequent linkage to a PbS nanoparticle. The synthesis entails lithiation of 3-bromothiophene and subsequent reaction with 1,5-dibromopentane to yield 3-(5-bromopentyl)thiophene. This will then be converted into 3-(5-isothioureapentyl)thiophene though reaction with thiourea. Subsequent reduction will produce the final thiol target. PbS nanoparticles will be synthesized from a lead(II) oxide source, and capped with varying ratios of 53T1MP and oleic acid. The prepared system will subsequently be electrochemically polymerized.

Synthesis and characterization of 5-(3'-thienyl)-1-mercaptopentane capped lead sulfide nanoparticles for polymeric photovoltaic cells

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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