Fully solution-processed transparent electrodes based on silver nanowire composites for perovskite solar cells

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Renewable Energy
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs) are crucial for solar cells.
• Silver nanowires (AgNWs) offer high conductivity and transparency but suffer from thermal instability and reactivity.
• Perovskite solar cells require stable and efficient TCEs for optimal performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop all-solution-processed TCEs for organometal halide perovskite solar cells.
• To enhance the stability of AgNWs against reactive perovskite precursors.
• To create a cost-effective and printable electrode solution.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of ZnO/ITO/AgNW/ITO composite films using a combustive sol-gel method.
• Integration of these composite films as bottom electrodes in perovskite solar cells.
• Characterization of the optoelectrical properties and stability of the electrodes and devices.

Main Results:

• The composite structure effectively protected AgNWs from degradation by halogen ions.
• AgNW-based composite electrodes achieved ~80% transmittance at 550 nm and 18 Ω sq(-1) sheet resistance.
• Perovskite solar cells with these electrodes showed a power conversion efficiency of 8.44% and stability for 30 days.

Conclusions:

• All-solution-processed AgNW-embedded metal oxide composite films are feasible TCEs for perovskite solar cells.
• This approach overcomes AgNW instability issues in perovskite solar cell fabrication.
• The findings support the use of printable AgNWs for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells.