A 3D finite element model of degradation phenomena in organic solar devices affected by oxidation

In this paper, we present a novel 3D finite element model for analyzing the influence of chemical degradation on organic solar cells (OSC) exposed to electromagnetic radiation in the visible light range. In our model, the degradation defects due to oxidation are represented by oxygen spherical subdomains located within the bulk. Electromagnetic simulations have been carried out for an increasing number of defects and for wavelengths lying within the visible light range. The simulation results have been compared with experimental data showing excellent agreement. This model allows us to evaluate the decrease in electrical power generated by OSCs in relation with the number of defects due to the degradation mechanism.