Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) have achieved remarkable progress, with laboratory-scale single-junction devices now demonstrating power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) exceeding 20%. However, these efficiencies are highly dependent on the thickness of the photoactive layer, which is typically around 100 nm. This sensitivity poses a challenge for industrial-scale fabrication. Achieving high PCEs in thick-film OPVs is therefore essential. This review systematically examines recent advancements in thick-film OPVs, focusing on the fundamental mechanisms that lead to efficiency loss and strategies to enhance performance. We provide a comprehensive analysis spanning the complete photovoltaic process chain: from initial exciton generation and diffusion dynamics, through dissociation mechanisms, to subsequent charge-carrier transport, balance optimization, and final collection efficiency. Particular emphasis is placed on cutting-edge solutions in molecular engineering and device architecture optimization. By synthesizing these interdisciplinary approaches and investigating the potential contributions in stability, cost, and machine learning aspects, this work establishes comprehensive guidelines for designing high-performance OPVs devices with minimal thickness dependence, ultimately aiming to bridge the gap between laboratory achievements and industrial manufacturing requirements.

Identifying and interpreting vacancies in patent maps is a promising approach to discover technological opportunities. However, it remains a challenging task. Recently, scientists from Seoul National University of Science and Technology have developed an innovative machine learning approach based on text-embedding inversion, which translates patent vacancies into human-readable formats, helping to uncover technological opportunities for corporate growth.

SUTD researchers have developed a streamlined life cycle assessment method that makes environmental evaluation faster, cheaper, and more accessible to product designers without compromising reliability.

By fitting its sunshield and solar panels, engineers have completed the construction of Plato, the European Space Agency’s mission to discover Earth-like exoplanets. Plato is on track for the final key tests to confirm that it is fit for launch.