earticle

영어

Sodium lignosulfonate (SLS), a byproduct during cellulose extraction, contains ion functional groups of SO3- and Na+without requiring a complex synthesis. Materials with such ionic functional groups can modify the work function of electrodes, a crucial factor for achieving optimal energy-level alignment in high-efficiency electronic devices. Therefore, SLS holds potential as a material for these applications. However, its fundamental properties, including electronic structure, are not yet fully understood, hindering its application in electronic devices. In this study, we analyzed the electronic structure of SLS usingphotoelectron spectroscopy. Furthermore, we demonstrated improved solar cell performance through work function control of ITO with SLS. Additionally, we presented the unique property of SLS in which its electronic structure changes upon interaction with light.