Charge carrier dynamics in organic electronic devices: A combined experimental and simulation-based approach (CARDYN)

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Wolfgang Brütting
• Subject Area: Electronic Semiconductors, Components and Circuits, Integrated Systems, Sensor Technology, Theoretical Electrical Engineering ; Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
• Term: from 2014 to 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 252240691

This project aims at the development and experimental validation of a numerical model for describing charge carrier dynamics in organic semiconductor layers and hetero-structures, which is then applied to organic photovoltaic cells and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). The motivation is to shed light on the dynamic charge transport and recombination processes in these organic optoelectronic devices. While a lot of research was already performed on charge transport in single-layer organic semiconductor devices, multilayer and/or stacked organic semiconductor devices are not yet fully understood. However, multilayer and/or stacked device architectures are crucial for high-efficiency OLEDs and organic solar cells. The latter device can either be built in a planar or bulk hetero-junction geometry of the two active semiconductor components.We plan to employ a combination of steady-state and transient opto-electronic characterization methods both in experiment and simulation. In this lead-agency project between Germany and Switzerland, we have the unique opportunity to resolve the challenging physical questions related to the operating mechanisms governing these novel devices in terms of efficiency and lifetime by dedicated device fabrication as well as measurement and simulation based characterization.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Switzerland
• Partner Organisation: Schweizerischer Nationalfonds (SNF)
• Participating Person: Professor Dr. Beat Ruhstaller