Recent research has unveiled promising advancements in the efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) through the use of copper(I) thiocyanate (CuSCN) as a hole transport layer (HTL). Conducted by Sehyun Jung from the Department of Physics at Kangwon National University in South Korea, this study published in ‘Molecules’ explores the effects of antisolvent treatment on CuSCN, a material known for its cost-effectiveness and stability.
Perovskite solar cells have gained traction in the renewable energy sector due to their impressive power conversion efficiencies, which have reached as high as 26%. However, the traditional HTL material, spiro-OMeTAD, is costly and requires additional additives, complicating the manufacturing process and impacting long-term stability. In contrast, CuSCN offers a more affordable and stable alternative but has faced challenges during its application due to the solvents used in its preparation, which can damage the underlying perovskite layer.
The research focused on five different antisolvents—ethyl acetate, methyl acetate, 2-propanol, diethyl ether, and chlorobenzene—applied during the spin-coating process of CuSCN. The findings revealed that antisolvent treatment significantly improved the crystallinity of the CuSCN layer while minimizing damage to the perovskite layer beneath it. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses indicated that the treatment led to larger grain sizes and enhanced film quality, which are crucial for optimizing charge transport in solar cells.
“The increased power conversion efficiency of PSCs from 14.72% to 15.86% via ethyl acetate treatment demonstrates the potential of antisolvent methods to enhance device performance,” Jung noted. This improvement is attributed to the better hole transport facilitated by the more crystalline CuSCN and the preserved integrity of the perovskite layer.
The implications of this research extend beyond laboratory results; they open new avenues for commercial applications in the solar energy market. With solar energy becoming increasingly vital in the global push for renewable energy sources, the ability to produce more efficient and cost-effective solar cells could significantly enhance market competitiveness. The findings suggest that antisolvent treatment could be a viable method for manufacturers looking to adopt CuSCN HTLs in their PSC production, potentially leading to lower costs and improved device longevity.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, innovations like these are crucial for driving down the costs of solar technology, making it more accessible and appealing to consumers and businesses alike. The study by Jung and colleagues highlights a tangible step towards achieving more efficient and commercially viable perovskite solar cells, further solidifying their role in the future of renewable energy.
