Researches of topography and optical properties of the thin films NiPc/PTCDA donor acceptor couple

Purpose: The aim of this work consists of researches of surface topography and optical properties of organic thin films of NiPc : PTCDA blends deposited by thermal evaporation from one source. Thin films of organic materials are provided as donor/acceptor couple in heterojuction solar cells.Design/methodology/approach: Films consisting of NiPc and PTCDA mixture were deposited by thermal evaporation from one source. By using blends with different PTCDA to NiPc ratios and steering the temperature of the sources and hence deposition rate different properties of layers are obtained.Findings: Both the chemical composition and technological parameters of deposition process has appeared to influence on optical properties and surface morphology of thin films. These parameters were found to influence surface morphology and UV-Vis absorption spectra.Research limitations/implications: The paper shows the methodology of deposition NiPc/PTCDA donor/acceptor blends and the influence of evaporation parameters on properties of thin films. That can be used for the research of the planar heterojunction solar cells based on NiPc/PTCDA heterojunction donor–acceptor couple active layers.Practical implications: Results of researches suggest that blends of NiPc and PTCDA can be useful materials in organic photovoltaic device. However right deposition parameters and the blends proportions determine the properties of NiPc/PTCDA donor/acceptor thin films.Originality/value: The goal of this paper is to definie the surface topography and optical properties of thin films NiPc/PTCDA blends prepared with different proportions of components and parameters of evaporation process.