Boosting electron transport in non-fullerene acceptors using non-chlorinated solvents

Chlorinated solvents are commonly used to process organic semiconductor devices but have several negative environmental impacts. The choice of processing solvent significantly affects the layer microstructure and device performance, so replacing chlorinated solvents is non-trivial. Herein, we investigate the microstructural and electron-transporting properties of small-molecule non-fullerene acceptor (NFA) films and transistors processed from various non-chlorinated solvents. We show that the ensuing NFA transistors exhibit improved layer morphology, crystallinity, and electron mobility superior to those processed from chlorinated solvents. Our work highlights using non-chlorinated solvents to optimise charge transport in organic semiconductors and their devices while mitigating adverse environmental effects. Chlorinated solvents are commonly used to process organic semiconductor devices but have several negative environmental impacts.

Automated summary

Chlorinated solvents are commonly used but have negative environmental impacts in processing organic semiconductor devices. The choice of solvent significantly affects the microstructure and performance of the devices, making it challenging to replace chlorinated solvents. In this study, we investigate the microstructural and electron-transport properties of non-fullerene acceptor (NFA) films and transistors processed from non-chlorinated solvents, showing improved layer morphology, crystallinity, and electron mobility compared to those processed from chlorinated solvents. Our work highlights the use of non-chlorinated solvents to optimize charge transport in organic semiconductors and mitigate environmental effects.