Organic photovoltaic cells based on self-assembly fabrication of vertically aligned CuPc nanorods upon fullerene particles

We demonstrate the self-assembled growth of vertically aligned Copper Phthalocyanine (CuPc) nanorods which are directly evaporated on fullerene (C₆₀) islands. UV–Vis spectroscopy of CuPc nanorods, compared to planar CuPc, shows an improvement in light absorption within the visible range. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrates the presence of well-arranged vertically aligned CuPc nanorods suggesting an increase in the donor–acceptor interface. X-ray diffraction (XRD) reveals the crystalline nature of these nanorods. Different organic photovoltaic cells have been fabricated using these nanorods. High current density achieved with the cell arrangement of CuPc/CuPc-nanorods/C₆₀ in comparison to regular planar CuPc/C₆₀ device. The power conversion efficiency is also doubled compared to the planar one.