Abstract
Extensive research has been done to optimize donor-acceptor properties of bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaics (BHJ OPVs) leading to devices with relatively high power conversion efficiencies (>5%). Polymer-nanoparticle hybrid solar cells are one class of BHJ OPVs that incorporate nanoparticles (electron carrier) in a polymer matrix (hole carrier). Blending inorganic nanoparticles with an organic polymer matrix is challenging due to unfavorable interactions between the nanoparticle and polymer leading to aggregation and poor charge separation. One method to improve ordering of the BHJ is by use of ligands on the inorganic nanoparticles that facilitate homogenous dispersion within the polymer matrix. This paper will discuss the preparation of pyridine end-functionalized P3HTs by in situ quenching of the Grignard Metathesis Polymerization with functional Grignard reagents. The degree of functionality of the polymers is determined by MALDI-TOF MS. In addition, methods to optimize the functionality of the resulting polymer will also be discussed.