Selectively transparent and conducting photonic crystals for advanced optoelectronics

A novel one-dimensional photonic crystal, called selectively transparent and conducting photonic crystal (STCPC), which integrates tunable optical and electrical properties is presented as a potential next-generation device element for advanced optoelectronics. A significant advance over existing 1D PCs, STCPCs combine intense wavelength selective broadband reflectance with the transmissive and electrical conductive properties of sputtered transparent conducting oxides. We review two applications which integrate STCPCs to enhance device performance; one, an STCPC based OLED microcavity, and two, an STCPC intermediate reflector in a micromorph tandem photovoltaic device. In both instances the STCPC, functioning as an electrode, providing the necessary electronic conductivity, and Bragg reflector, serves to enhance device performance.