10.1007/s40095-020-00345-1

A 3D finite element model of degradation phenomena in organic solar devices affected by oxidation

  • Grazia Lo Sciuto*1,
  • Salvatore Coco1,
  1. Department of Electrical, Electronics and Informatics Engineering, University of Catania, Catania, 95125, IT

Published in Issue 2020-05-01

How to Cite

Lo Sciuto, G., & Coco, S. (2020). A 3D finite element model of degradation phenomena in organic solar devices affected by oxidation. International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering, 11(4 (December 2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40095-020-00345-1
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Abstract

Abstract In this paper, we present a novel 3D finite element model for analyzing the influence of chemical degradation on organic solar cells (OSC) exposed to electromagnetic radiation in the visible light range. In our model, the degradation defects due to oxidation are represented by oxygen spherical subdomains located within the bulk. Electromagnetic simulations have been carried out for an increasing number of defects and for wavelengths lying within the visible light range. The simulation results have been compared with experimental data showing excellent agreement. This model allows us to evaluate the decrease in electrical power generated by OSCs in relation with the number of defects due to the degradation mechanism.

Keywords

  • Organic solar cells,
  • Chemical degradation,
  • Electromagnetic fields,
  • Finite element method

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