Dual-Molecule Passivation Boosts Perovskite Solar Cell Efficiency and Stability
- Researchers have developed a dual-molecule passivation technology that simultaneously improves the efficiency and stability of inverted perovskite solar cells, according to a study published in the journal ACS...
- Perovskite solar cells have emerged as an appealing alternative to traditional silicon-based solar cells on account of their high efficiency and low production costs.
- In parallel material developments, researchers at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST) have focused on optimizing the raw crystalline powder required for perovskite absorber...
Researchers have developed a dual-molecule passivation technology that simultaneously improves the efficiency and stability of inverted perovskite solar cells, according to a study published in the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces. Headed by Dr. Sungjun Hong of the Photovoltaics Research Department at the Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER), the project was carried out alongside professors Young Seok Park of Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) and Kyung-Koo Lee of Kunsan National University.
Tackling Gaps in Perovskite Solar Cells
Perovskite solar cells have emerged as an appealing alternative to traditional silicon-based solar cells on account of their high efficiency and low production costs. However, maximizing performance has remained challenging because microscopic gaps within the cell layers can lead to energy loss and hinder electron flow.
To address this issue, researchers have explored specialized molecular approaches. Two specific molecules with complementary properties can work together to seal tiny gaps in the cell structure. Molecule A features a high affinity for the material used in the cell structure, allowing it to bind effectively to surfaces and fill gaps. Molecule B acts as a stabilizer to ensure that the protective layer remains durable and intact over time.
When combined, these two molecules exhibit a synergistic effect. Molecule A fills the gaps efficiently while Molecule B reinforces the structure to prevent degradation, resulting in a more stable and efficient solar cell capable of harnessing solar energy more effectively.
Powder Engineering and Crystalline Quality
In parallel material developments, researchers at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST) have focused on optimizing the raw crystalline powder required for perovskite absorber layers. Led by Professor Yabing Qi, the OIST Energy Materials and Surface Sciences Unit utilized a powder engineering method to create high-quality FAPbI3.
In the past, this absorber layer was produced by blending PbI2 and FAI together, a chemical reaction that frequently left unreacted remnants of one or both initial substances, which can diminish the solar cell’s performance. To resolve this, the OIST team mixed formamidinium acetate (FAAc) with hydroiodic acid (HI), added PbI2, heated the mixture to 90 degrees Celsius, and dissolved and filtered out remaining impurities in water. This process yielded a structurally perfect powder that maintained its brown color and stability at room temperature rather than turning yellow.
These combined advancements in dual-molecule passivation and powder engineering aim to bring lab-scale innovations closer to real-world commercial deployment, offering a path toward durable, flexible, and cost-effective solar energy generation.
