Solar power has proven to be an environmentally sound, cost-effective source of renewable energy. Silicon has been widely used in solar cells due to its semi-conductive properties but there is evidence that organic molecules have the potential to serve as a better alternative. The advantages of organic photovoltaic cells include their ability to absorb sunlight efficiently and substantially decrease manufacturing costs. The goal of this work is to synthesize new electron rich organic molecules and polymers to be used as donors in organic photovoltaics. The two primary synthetic targets include a rubrene-like molecule that incorporates a negatively charged aromatic ring, and an organic polymer based on a disubstituted furo[3,2]furan repeat unit. Progress toward each target is reported, which includes yields and characterization of new compounds.

Synthesis of new donor molecules for organic photovoltaics

2019 Spring National Meeting

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.