Maximal light-energy transfer through a dielectric/metal-layered electrode on a photoactive device

Abstract

We report the fabrication of an optimized low reflective dielectric/metal-layered electrode that provides significant electrical conductivity and light transparency in the near-infrared wavelength regime. By making the metal film thickness thick enough and choosing a proper dielectric layer with a certain thickness, we show that our suggested electrode significantly reduces the light reflection while preserving high electrical conductivity. We demonstrate our optimized electrodes present a highly conductive surface with a sheet resistance of 5.2 Ω/sq and a high light transmittance of near 85% in the near-infrared regime. We also apply our optimized electrode to thin-film organic photovoltaic devices and show the electrode helps in absorbing light energy inside an active layer. We believe that this simple but powerful layered electrode will pave the way for designing transparent electrodes on photoactive devices.

Structural and Optical Characterization of ZnS Ultrathin Films Prepared by Low-Temperature ALD from Diethylzinc and 1.5-Pentanedithiol after Various Annealing Treatments

“…The reflectance spectrum of the amorphous ZnS thin film demonstrated a broad and distinct dip in the 450–500 nm range with a reflectance value of about 0.1. Similar reflectance minimums were observed for the ZnS/Au/Ti multilayer structure deposited on the Si substrate [40] and in electrodeposited ZnS thin films after annealing treatments [41]. Moreover, a significant transmittance of ~70% at around 540 nm [42] and ~90% at around 550 nm [43] was observed for the ZnS layer thickness of 64 and 40 nm, respectively.…”

Transparent Photovoltaics for Self‐Powered Devices and Memories

“…This enhancement is likely attributed to the reduced scattering cross section and optical matching that reduces the reflectance of the hybrid ZnO/AgNWs. [53,54] The TH-integrated TPV allowed a heat-soaking study to examine the unsteady electrical conductance of the AgNWs. The TH-integrated TPVD setup for the heat-soaking study can be used to explore the thermal durability of TPVs.…”