Synthesis, thermal characterization, and gas barrier properties of UV curable organic/inorganic hybrid nanocomposites with metal alloys and their application for encapsulation of organic solar cells

Abstract

We have successfully prepared ultraviolet (UV) curable organic/inorganic hybrid nanocomposites with good thermal stability, moderate adhesion strength, and excellent barrier capability. In order to improve the gas blocking properties, the metal alloy (Invar) has been blended with lab-made organic/inorganic hybrid nanocomposites, dramatically not only raising the gas resistance but also reducing the shrinkage after UV curing. Moreover, we have also applied lab-made nanocomposite IV for the encapsulation of organic solar cells. The experimental results reveal that introduction of nanocomposite IV can effectively block the penetration of moisture as well as oxygen in the air into the devices and consequently promote the lifetime of organic solar cells. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.