Multilayer Electrode for Photovoltaic Components, Method for the Production Thereof, and Photovoltaic Component Comprising Such a Multilayer Electrode

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This invention introduces a multilayer electrode for photovoltaic devices, wherein at least two metal layers are provided on an absorber layer. The innovative aspect lies in configuring the first electrode layer (adjacent to the absorber) as a mixture of two metals, A and B. The metal composition, layer thickness, and work function differences between metals are optimized depending on whether the electrode is used as a cathode or anode. This design enables selective transport of one type of charge carrier (either electrons or holes) while blocking the opposite type, improving device performance. The patent also describes methods for manufacturing these electrodes and photovoltaic devices, such as organic solar cells, incorporating them.

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• Organic solar cells with improved efficiency and simpler manufacturing processes.
• Flexible and low-cost solar panels for portable electronics or wearables.
• Photodetectors or light sensors with tailored charge selectivity.
• Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) with optimized electrode interfaces.
• Hybrid organic-inorganic photovoltaic devices for next-generation energy applications.

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• Enhanced charge carrier selectivity, leading to higher power conversion efficiency in solar cells.
• Elimination of extra buffer layers, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
• Greater flexibility in material selection for both absorbers and electrodes.
• Improved stability and durability of the electrode-absorber contact.
• Potentially thinner and lighter photovoltaic devices with better electrical performance.

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Patent Abstract

A multilayer electrode is disclosed, at least comprising two metal layers that are arranged on an absorber. In said multilayer electrode, the first electrode layer E1 forming the boundary surface to the absorber is designed as a mixed layer A:B of a metal A of said electrode layer E1 and metal B of the second electrode layer E2, the concentration of metal A of electrode layer E1 being greater than the concentration of metal B of electrode layer E2. Furthermore, if the multilayer electrode is designed as a cathode, metal A has a lower work function than metal B, or if the multilayer electrode is designed as an anode, metal A has a higher work function than metal B and the first electrode layer E1 is thinner than the second electrode layer E2. A method for producing such a multilayer electrode and an organic solar cell comprising such a multilayer electrode are also disclosed.