Efficient and stable tin perovskite solar cells enabled by amorphous-polycrystalline structure

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Renewable Energy
• Photovoltaics

Background:

• Tin perovskite solar cells (TPSCs) are explored as lead-free alternatives.
• Challenges include low defect formation energy and tin oxidation, limiting efficiency and stability.
• Developing stable and efficient TPSCs is crucial for sustainable energy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer a stable amorphous-polycrystalline structure for tin perovskite solar cells.
• To enhance the efficiency and operational stability of lead-free TPSCs.
• To address the inherent instability issues of tin-based perovskites.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a TPSC with a tin triple-halide amorphous layer and cesium-formamidinium tin iodide polycrystals.
• Structural analysis to confirm the amorphous-polycrystalline configuration.
• Performance testing including efficiency measurements and long-term stability under simulated solar light.

Main Results:

• Achieved a certified quasi-steady-state power conversion efficiency (PCE) exceeding 10%.
• Demonstrated remarkable stability, retaining 95% of initial PCE after 1000 hours of operation.
• The novel structure effectively blocked external contaminants and suppressed ion diffusion.

Conclusions:

• The amorphous-polycrystalline structure significantly improves TPSC efficiency and stability.
• This approach offers a viable pathway for developing high-performance, lead-free perovskite solar cells.
• The developed TPSC technology shows promise for commercial solar energy applications.