Efficient, Semitransparent Neutral-Colored Solar Cells Based on Microstructured Formamidinium Lead Trihalide...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Renewable Energy
• Photovoltaics

Background:

• Semitransparent solar cells are crucial for integrating power generation into building facades and automotive surfaces.
• Existing neutral-colored semitransparent solar cells often compromise on efficiency or color neutrality.
• Perovskite solar cells offer tunable properties but require optimization for stability and color characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop efficient, neutral-colored semitransparent perovskite solar cells for commercial applications.
• To enhance power conversion efficiency and color neutrality in semitransparent solar devices.
• To investigate the suitability of these cells for building-integrated photovoltaics.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a microstructured architecture for perovskite solar cell fabrication.
• Replaced methylammonium lead iodide with formamidinium lead iodide perovskite.
• Incorporated a novel transparent cathode for improved device performance and color neutrality.

Main Results:

• Achieved high power conversion efficiency exceeding 5% with average visible transparency of nearly 30%.
• Demonstrated impressive color neutrality in full working devices.
• Significantly reduced current-voltage hysteresis compared to previous formulations.
• Outperformed silicon solar cells in performance at high incident angles of sunlight.

Conclusions:

• Developed the best-performing single-junction neutral-colored semitransparent solar cells to date.
• The microstructured perovskite solar cells are highly suitable for building integration due to their performance characteristics.
• These advancements pave the way for aesthetically pleasing and efficient solar energy solutions.