Skip to main content
Article
Mitigation of Surface Aggregation in Modified Phthalocyanines as Potential Photo Sensitizers
MRS Online Proceedings Library Archive (2015)
  • Rory J. Vander Valk
  • Patrick J. Dwyer
  • Stephen P. Kelty
Abstract
Important to the development of dye-sensitized solar cells is the longevity and photo-conversion efficiency of the dye. To improve cost effectiveness, dyes of superior thermal and chemical stability are desirable to extend device performance. In this study, we examine a series of peripherally fluorinated Zinc-Phthalocyanines (FxZnPc). Introduction of chemically inert fluorine and isopropyl fluoroalkyl groups on the periphery of the Pc improve the dye stability and allow for tunable photo-physical properties. Additionally, introduction of the bulky isopropyl fluoroalkyl groups help mitigate molecular aggregation in thin films which is known to be detrimental to maintaining the desired photo-physical properties of the surface coating. Using molecular dynamics and first principles modeling, various substituent effects on surface adhesion and aggregation over TiO2 surfaces are characterized for both symmetric and asymmetric substitution.
Keywords
  • Amorphous,
  • Annealing,
  • Thin film
Publication Date
2015
DOI
10.1557/opl.2015.663
Citation Information
Rory J. Vander Valk, Patrick J. Dwyer and Stephen P. Kelty. "Mitigation of Surface Aggregation in Modified Phthalocyanines as Potential Photo Sensitizers" MRS Online Proceedings Library Archive Vol. 1784 (2015)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/stephen_kelty/13/