Fluorescence and photoconductivity: a window into charge transport in organic semiconductors

Organic semiconductor materials have attracted significant attention in recently as they offer significant advantages over traditional silicon technology including their low cost fabrication and tunability through functionalization of the molecules. Envisioned applications range from inexpensive solution processable solar cells to rewritable holographic displays. However, despite this interest in application, the nature of charge carrier photogeneration and transport in organic semiconductors is not completely understood and remains controversial. In this talk I will present some details of fluorescence and photoconductivity measurement techniques we use, what they can tell us of carrier dynamics, and what we have learned. Some of our more recent results will be presented including organic-metal organic interfaces and thermally induced fluorescence quenching. I will conclude with a reflection on the ambitious plan outlined in our last SSO presentation, and a look towards our future research.