Effect of UV illumination on perylene-doped luminescent solar concentrators

A cautionary tale

Journal article (2019)

Authors

Lex A.F. Vingerhoets Eindhoven University of Technology
Jeroen ter Schiphorst Lusoco B.V.
W.R. Hagen BT/Biocatalysis - AS
Michael G. Debije Eindhoven University of Technology
Research Group
BT/Biocatalysis (AS) (TU Delft)
Luminescent solar concentrator Ultraviolet light Perylene dye Radical anion
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Published Date

2019

Language

English

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Faculty

Applied Sciences

Department

BT/Biotechnologie

Research Group

BT/Biocatalysis

Abstract

The luminescent solar concentrator has the potential of widespread use as a generator of electricity from sunlight well-suited for use in the urban environment owing to its adaptability in shape and coloration. The device performance is heavily dependent on the ability to transport light long distances to the edges. A common organic luminophore used in the device is based on a perylene core. In this work, we describe an overlooked effect of UV illumination on the appearance and efficiency of these devices. An additional absorption peak appears upon polymerization under intense UV in nitrogen atmosphere which significantly reduces the edge emissions from the device. The additional absorbance peak disappears after exposure to air, indicating the presence of a radical anion being formed during the UV light exposure. This suggests newly-produced LSC devices should be allowed to stand a period of time under ambient conditions before their performance characteristics are determined, which could have implications in potential future commercialization of the technology.