Document Type
Research Paper
Publication Date
2015
Keywords
Organic photovoltaics, Solar cell design, Solar technology, Computational chemistry
Abstract
The acceleration in global population growth, combined with worldwide economic development, have together dramatically increased the demand for energy. This demand has been filled by fossil fuels. The reliance on fossil fuels as a cheap and convenient means of energy is leading to adverse, and perhaps irreversible, ramifications for the entire planet. Many potential alternative energy sources have been explored to alleviate the dependence upon fossil fuels. The use of solar energy as a renewable energy source has been a key area of investigation to many scientists and engineers looking to solve this problem. Among current solar cell design paradigms, organic photovoltaic cell technology shows significant potential due to its potential low cost, flexibility, and manipulability. While scientific research has led to progress in organic photovoltaics, significant issues remain that must be addressed in order for organic photovoltaic cells to become a more feasible option. The purpose of this paper is to expound the crucial role of computational chemistry in novel material discovery and optimization as it pertains to organic photovoltaics.
Recommended Citation
Hoffman, Andrew, "Computational Chemistry in Rational Material Design for Organic Photovoltaics" (2015). Western Libraries Undergraduate Research Award. 5.
https://cedar.wwu.edu/library_researchaward/5
Subjects - Topical (LCSH)
Photovoltaic cells; Solar cells--Materials; Organic semiconductors; Photovoltaic power generation; Chemistry--Computer programs
Research reflection paper
Genre/Form
term papers
Type
Text
Language
English
Format
application/pdf
Comments
This paper was nominated for the Libraries Undergraduate Research Award by, Tim Kowalczyk, faculty in Western Washington University’s Chemistry Department.