A transparent self-healable multistimuli-responsive novel supramolecular Co(II)-metallogel derived from adipic acid: Effective hole transport layer for polymer solar cells

A fascinating approach for the instantaneous synthesis of adipic acid as a low molecular weight gelator and cobalt(II)-ion based metallogel through one-shot mixing in N,N-dimethyl formamide medium has been attained under ambient condition and at room temperature. The rheological study was applied to investigate the mechanical property of the synthesized Co(II)-metallogel. Through thixotropic experi-ments, the self-healing ability of the synthesised cobalt metallogel is established. The layered structure of the metallogel was envisaged through FESEM and the present elements were characterized through EDX mapping investigations. The potential metallogel formation approach has been examined using FT-IR, and the Powder X-ray diffraction pattern verifies the crystallinity of the Co(II)-metallogel's xerogel form. The absorption characteristics of this gel showed transparent in the visible to near infrared region of solar spectrum. The semiconducting property of the metallogel has been further confirmed and verified and with electronic device characterization and charge career mobility evaluation and found that this gel exhibits quite high hole mobility. We have used this as hole transport layer for polymer solar cells using PM6:Y6 as active layer and compared with the MoO3 as hole transport layer. The power conversion effi-ciency for Co(II)-metallogel (Co-AD) as hole transport layer 13.15 % which is higher than that for MoO3 counterpart (12.17 %). The higher power conversion efficiency for Co(II)-metallogel is associated with enhanced value of fill factor owing to the more efficient charge transport and suppressed charge recombination.(c) 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

A novel method of instantaneously synthesizing adipic acid as a low molecular weight gelator and cobalt(II)-ion based metallogel has been achieved through one-shot mixing. The synthesized Co(II)-metallogel demonstrates self-healing ability and a layered structure, as well as transparent absorption characteristics in the visible to near infrared region. Furthermore, it exhibits semiconducting properties and high hole mobility, making it a promising candidate for hole transport layers in polymer solar cells.