Polymer-based nanocomposites for organic optoelectronic devices. A review

This review reports the recent developments in optical applications of polymer-based nanocomposites, with a special focus on energy-related issues. Hybrid organic inorganic materials exhibit remarkable optical properties, which are of interest for applications in diverse fields. Inorganic nanoparticles with unique properties can be added to a conjugated polymer matrix in order to design both composites or thin films that are used as an active layer of electronic devices in modern display technology (organic light emitting diodes) and energy conversion (organic photovoltaic cells). Potential industrial applications of such materials are discussed, together with their drawbacks and advantages, in relation to their optical properties. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.