Synergistic effects of MOF 545 and inorganic additives synchronously for enhanced performance of low-cost carbon-based perovskite solar cells

Abstract

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) hold significant promise for the future of renewable energy, with their commercial viability highly anticipated. However, their limited long-term stability, mainly due to degradation from moisture, humidity, elevated temperatures, and UV-A light exposure, remains a significant obstacle. This study addresses these challenges by employing a multifaceted approach involving additive engineering and surface passivation. A novel method was used to synthesize CZTS nanoparticles, which were incorporated as an additive within the perovskite precursor solution. Additionally, MOF 545 was successfully integrated into the perovskite precursor solution, and a CdS layer was deposited at the ETL/perovskite interface. XRD analysis revealed that the combined addition of MOF 545 and CZTS enhanced the perovskite's crystallinity and surface morphology, leading to an increase in grain size and a reduction in grain boundary defects. Furthermore, these additives effectively restricted Pb2+ ion migration within the perovskite absorber layer. The champion cell, incorporating all three additives, achieved a notable power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.32 %, representing a significant 70.58 % increase compared to the pristine PSC. The use of additive-treated cells demonstrated improved thermal stability compared to untreated cells, as confirmed through stress testing. These results highlight the potential of additive engineering to significantly enhance the performance and stability of PSCs. Further exploration and optimization of synergistic additive combinations to achieve even greater performance enhancements and long-term stability in PSCs can pave the way for their successful commercialization.