Investigating the influence of natural dye extracts from Ocimum gratissimum, Solanum melongena, Piper guineese, and their blend in the fabrication of perovskite solar cells

Abstract

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) represent a promising alternative to conventional silicon solar cells but face challenges like instability stemming from structural defects, environmental toxicity due to the selection of precursors and additives, and concerns regarding long-term reliability. To address these issues, we investigated the viability of cost-effective and eco-friendly PSCs by strategically incorporating natural dyes derived from indigenous plants, including Ocimum gratisimum, Solanum melongena, and Piper guineese, into the MAPbI3 perovskite crystal, using a two-step sequential drop-casting technique. The resulting perovskite films underwent comprehensive analysis for their structural, morphological, optical and elemental composition using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–visible spectrophotometer (UV–Vis) and energy dispersive X-ray microscopy (EDX). Performance evaluation was conducted through J-V curve analysis using a solar simulator. The XRD analysis revealed polycrystalline films with enhanced diffraction intensities corresponding to a hexagonal structure, and the UV–Vis analysis demonstrated substantial improvements in light absorption with improved optical properties. SEM studies provided crucial correlations between morphology and performance, with each sample exhibiting unique attributes, and EDX analysis confirmed essential elements within the films. The current density-voltage analysis demonstrated a 1.83 % power conversion efficiency (PCE) for the natural dye-doped device under air, surpassing the pristine device. This study advances the understanding of the synergies between natural dyes and perovskite materials, emphasizing their potential to enhance PSC efficiency. The findings underscore the considerations for designing and optimizing PSCs, paving the way for further exploration of natural dye-based approaches in sustainable photovoltaic technologies.