Interfacial Embedding of Laser-Manufactured Fluorinated Gold Clusters Enabling Stable Perovskite Solar Cells with...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Renewable Energy
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Interfacial loss is a key challenge in perovskite solar cells (PSCs), impacting both carrier dynamics and environmental stability.
• Developing effective interfacial mediators and their integration into the active layer remains a significant technological hurdle.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a novel strategy of interfacial embedding of hydrophobic fluorinated-gold-clusters (FGCs) for enhancing the efficiency and stability of PSCs.
• To investigate the role of FGCs in improving carrier dynamics and environmental resilience.

Main Methods:

• Interfacial embedding of hydrophobic fluorinated-gold-clusters (FGCs) into the active layer of PSCs.
• Characterization of carrier dynamics, charge extraction, and environmental stability under varying humidity levels.

Main Results:

• FGCs, acting as p-type semiconductors, effectively reduce interfacial carrier transfer barriers and boost charge extraction.
• The hydrophobic nature of FGCs and hydrogen bonding with perovskite enhance environmental stability.
• Achieved champion efficiency of 24.02% for formamidinium lead iodide PSCs and demonstrated long-term moisture stability for mixed-cation PSCs.

Conclusions:

• Interfacial embedding of laser-generated FGCs is an effective strategy for advancing highly efficient and stable PSCs.
• FGCs improve both charge transfer/extraction and environmental stability, addressing critical limitations in PSC technology.