Recent advancements in perovskite solar cell technology have emerged from a study led by Linrui Duan at the Institute of Photoelectronic Thin Film Devices and Technology, part of Nankai University in China. This research focuses on enhancing the efficiency and stability of n–i–p type perovskite solar cells (PSCs) by modifying the interface between the electron transport layer (ETL) and the perovskite layer.
The study highlights the crucial role of the buried interface in solar cell performance. By utilizing a multi-functional compound known as potassium trifluoromethyl sulfonate, the researchers were able to create a strong bond between the titanium oxide ETL and the perovskite layer. This modification not only improved adhesion but also significantly reduced interface defects, which are often a source of energy loss in solar cells. As Duan explains, the trifluoromethyl sulfonate acts as a “crosslinker” that enhances the interaction between the two layers, thus suppressing carrier recombination and improving overall efficiency.
The results of this research are promising for the commercial solar energy market. The devices developed achieved a record power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.22% and a fill factor of nearly 85%, marking the highest performance for PSCs based on chemical bath deposited titanium oxide. Additionally, the unencapsulated devices demonstrated remarkable stability, maintaining 81.3% of their initial efficiency after 1000 hours of operation.
These findings present significant commercial opportunities for the energy sector. With the growing demand for efficient and durable solar technologies, the ability to produce high-performance perovskite solar cells could lead to broader adoption of this technology in residential and commercial applications. Improved efficiency translates to better energy yields, which can enhance the economic viability of solar investments.
The research published in ‘Advanced Science’ underscores the potential of interface modification in advancing solar cell technology. As the industry seeks to reduce costs and improve performance, innovations like those from Duan and his team could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of solar energy.
