Cost-effective poly(3-alkylthiophene)-based organic photovoltaics: advancing solar energy conversion and photodetection technologies

Poly(3-alkylthiophene)s (P3ATs), particularly poly(3-hexylthiophene) are cornerstone materials for organic photovoltaics, bridging efficiency, scalability, and solution processability. This article systematically outlines advancements in P3AT-based organic solar cells (OSCs) and photodetectors (OPDs), focusing on materials physics principles, structure-property relationships, and application-driven optimization. Innovations in polymerization methods enable high regioregularity and eco-friendly production. Critical structural parameters-molecular weight, regioregularity, and side-chain topology-are dissected, with strategically tailored molecular weight/regioregularity and alkyl chains optimizing charge transport and morphology. Dual donor/acceptor blending, solvent engineering, and post-processing strategies further enhance device performance, achieving high efficiency for OSCs and specific detectivities exceeding 10¹⁴ Jones for OPDs. Photomultiplication mechanisms and spectral engineering enable ultrahigh responsivity (EQE >770 000%) and narrowband detection. Application-oriented designs, including intrinsically stretchable all-polymer systems and semi-transparent architectures, highlight P3ATs' versatility in wearable electronics and building-integrated photovoltaics. Future directions emphasize truly green solvents, simplified acceptors, and machine learning-guided material design to advance commercialization. By synergizing material innovation with scalable processing, P3ATs and their close variants offer a sustainable pathway for next-generation optoelectronics, balancing performance, stability, and environmental impact.