Crystal structures in state-of-the-art non-fullerene electron acceptors

Great progress in the power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of organic photovoltaics (OPVs) has been made by employing non-fullerene acceptors (NFAs). In order to further promote the device performance, it is necessary to systematically understand the design strategies, packing information and intermolecular interactions at the atomic level of NFAs. In this review, we highlight the recent advances in the study of single crystal structures of NFAs in OPVs, as well as the relationship between molecular design strategies, packing arrangement, and their corresponding properties. Finally, the challenges and future development of new electron acceptors with ideal single crystal structures and packing modes for next-generation organic photovoltaics are discussed.

Automated summary

Great progress has been made in the power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of organic photovoltaics (OPVs) by using non-fullerene acceptors (NFAs). In order to further improve device performance, it is important to understand the design strategies, packing information, and intermolecular interactions of NFAs at the atomic level. This review highlights recent advances in the study of single crystal structures of NFAs in OPVs, as well as the relationship between molecular design strategies, packing arrangement, and their corresponding properties. The challenges and future development of new electron acceptors with ideal single crystal structures and packing modes for next-generation organic photovoltaics are also discussed.