ZrSnO₄: A Solution-Processed Robust Electron Transport Layer of Efficient Planar-Heterojunction Perovskite Solar...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Renewable Energy
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Electron transport layers (ETLs) are critical for efficient planar-heterojunction perovskite solar cells (PSCs).
• Developing stable and high-performance ETL materials is essential for advancing PSC technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a sol-gel-derived ZrSnO4 thin film for use as an ETL in PSCs.
• To evaluate the optoelectronic properties and performance of PSCs incorporating the novel ZrSnO4 ETL.

Main Methods:

• Sol-gel synthesis was employed to create ZrSnO4 thin films.
• Optoelectronic properties, including transmittance and conductivity, were systematically investigated.
• Fabrication and testing of CH3NH3PbI3-based planar-heterojunction PSCs with ZrSnO4 ETLs were performed.

Main Results:

• Optimized ZrSnO4 films exhibited high optical transmittance and suitable electronic properties.
• PSC devices utilizing the ZrSnO4 ETL achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of up to 19.05%.
• Non-encapsulated devices demonstrated good long-term stability for 360 hours under ambient conditions.

Conclusions:

• Sol-gel-derived ZrSnO4 is a promising material for robust, solution-processed ETLs in high-performance PSCs.
• The developed ZrSnO4 ETL contributes significantly to both the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar devices.