SYNTHESIS OF CONJUGATED STYRENE-ALT-MALEIC ANHYDRIDE
Abstract
Polymer-based solar cells offer the potential of cheap, flexible, and readily customizable alternatives to silicon-based solar cells. However, reaching high power conversion efficiencies in polymer solar cells has proven to be problematic. To reach higher power conversion efficiencies, a low bandgap polymer capable of absorbing higher proportions of solar irradiation is ideal. Bandgap is influenced by factors such as conjugation length, aromaticity, and substituent effects. Here styrene-alt-maleic anhydride is synthesized and then brominated at the α-carbonyl position to allow for elimination and the formation of a fully conjugated polymer. This material will then be characterized with regard to both molecular properties and potential as a photovoltaic polymer.
Recommended Citation
Sikes, N. M. and Holley, D. W.
(2017)
"SYNTHESIS OF CONJUGATED STYRENE-ALT-MALEIC ANHYDRIDE,"
Georgia Journal of Science, Vol. 75, No. 1, Article 65.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.gaacademy.org/gjs/vol75/iss1/65