Charge transfer in rare earth oxide hybrid solar cells

Hybrid inorganic–organic solar cells typically combine a transition metal oxide and organic absorber to form the donor–acceptor pair. Here, we explore the use of a rare earth oxide to function as the inorganic component of a hybrid solar cell. Oxidized neodymium (Nd2O3) particles are combined with [6,6]-phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) to form the solar cell active layer. The short circuit current and open circuit voltage are both enhanced compared to pure PCBM. In addition, the photoinduced absorption decay rate increases, and photobleaching is observed. This provides evidence for charge transfer between the organic and rare earth inorganic components.