Examining the advances, obstacles, and achievements of tin-based perovskite solar cells: a review

Abstract

The depletion of fossil fuels and the subsequent energy shortages have become a pressing global issue in the 21st century. The increasing demand for energy has prompted a significant focus on sustainable and renewable energy sources. Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have shown potential among various emerging solar cell technologies due to their high efficiency and economical production. However, the toxic nature of lead (Pb) in organo-inorganic metal halide PSCs presents environmental and health risks. Developing lead-free PSCs is crucial to ensure a safe and sustainable energy future. This review paper focuses on experimental studies of various types of Sn-based perovskites as a potential alternative to Pb-based PSCs. These perovskites offer comparable or higher performance levels but face challenges such as low stability and efficient charge extraction. The review discusses recent advancements in developing novel materials and device architectures to overcome these challenges. While Sn-based perovskites hold promise as an alternative, more research is necessary to optimize their performance and stability. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the progress and challenges in developing Sn-based perovskites for PSCs, which could pave the way for a sustainable and pollution-free energy future.