Stability enhancement of perovskite solar cells using multifunctional inorganic materials with UV protective, self cleaning, and high wear resistance properties

Seyyedeh Sedigheh Azad ¹, Reza Keshavarzi ², Valiollah Mirkhani ³

⁰Department of Chemistry, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, 81746-73441, Iran.

Scientific Reports +

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March 19, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Transparent coatings with AZO and ZnO enhance perovskite solar cell stability against UV light. AZO coatings offer superior wear resistance and higher efficiency, making them ideal for durable solar cell applications.

Area Of Science

Materials Science
Renewable Energy
Photovoltaics

Background

Organometal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) achieve high power conversion efficiencies but lack long-term stability, particularly against UV irradiation and humidity.
Environmental degradation significantly impacts the operational lifespan and performance of PSCs.

Purpose Of The Study

To improve the long-term stability of PSCs against UV irradiation using multifunctional transparent coatings.
To investigate the self-cleaning and wear resistance properties of AZO and ZnO porous UV light absorbers.
To evaluate the impact of these coatings on PSC efficiency and durability.

Main Methods

Two types of transparent coatings, AZO (Aluminum-doped Zinc Oxide) and ZnO (Zinc Oxide), were applied to the front of PSCs.
The coatings were characterized for their UV absorption, light transmission, self-cleaning (photocatalytic), and mechanical properties (hardness, wear resistance).
The stability of PSCs with these coatings was tested under high-intensity UV light exposure for 100 hours.

Main Results

Both AZO and ZnO coatings provided protection against UV irradiation, with AZO showing higher UV absorption.
PSCs with AZO coatings maintained 40% of their initial performance, while those with ZnO maintained 30% after 100 hours of UV exposure.
AZO coatings exhibited superior wear resistance and higher light transmission in the visible spectrum compared to ZnO, leading to higher device efficiency.

Conclusions

Multifunctional AZO and ZnO transparent coatings effectively enhance the UV stability and durability of perovskite solar cells.
AZO coatings demonstrate superior performance in terms of UV protection, wear resistance, and efficiency, making them a promising material for protective layers in solar cells.
These coatings offer potential applications for cover glass in various types of solar cells, improving their longevity and performance.

Keywords:

AZO and ZnO High wear-resistance Perovskite solar cells Self-cleaning UV protective