Hierarchical assembly of porphyries and fullerenes for solar cells

An overview of supramolecular chemistry approach as a means of assembling porphyrin and acceptor for light energy conversion is presented. Organized supramolecular assemblies of multiporphyrin arrays with fullerene molecules as 3D network provide ideal systems for fulfilling an enhanced light-harvesting efficiency of chromophores throughout the solar spectrum. Efficient conversion of the harvested light into the higher energy state of the charge separated complex is achieved by photoinduced electron transfer through such assemblies. Charge separation between porphyrin and fullerene and the resulting hole and electron transport in the thin films are two essential factors that produce efficient photocurrent generation. Three-dimensional steric control between porphyrin and fullerene in the supramolecular systems contributes to both the efficient formation of charge separation and the hole and electron transport in the thin film. The development of supramolecular assemblies of multiporphyrin arrays with fullerene molecules contributes to the emergence of efficient light energy conversion systems.