Intrinsically conductive polymer electrodes for thin-film solar cells and energy storage devices

Abstract

Intrinsically Conductive Polymers (ICPs) have emerged as transformative materials in the field of energy conversion and storage, offering a unique combination of tuneable optoelectronic properties, mechanical flexibility, and processability. This comprehensive review critically examines the synthesis strategies, charge transport mechanisms, and structural versatility of ICPs, emphasizing their pivotal role in advancing thin-film solar cells and energy storage technologies. In photovoltaics, ICPs have demonstrated remarkable enhancements across various architectures—including organic photovoltaics and dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) achieving efficiency gains of up to 20 % and manufacturing cost reductions exceeding 30%. In the domain of energy storage, their integration into supercapacitors and lithium-ion batteries has resulted in substantial improvements in specific capacity (up to 50%), charge–discharge rates (up to 40%), and cycling stability (with longevity gains of 60% over conventional materials). The review also highlights recent innovations in multifunctional ICP-based composites tailored for next-generation flexible and wearable devices, aligning with the global shift toward sustainable and adaptable energy systems. By bridging the gap between fundamental materials research and device-level performance, this review underscores the critical importance of ICPs in shaping the future of clean, efficient, and resilient energy technologies.