Thermal and power performance optimization of cost-effective solar cells using eco-friendly perovskite materials

Abstract

In this paper, a novel solar cell is proposed that utilizes a Sn-based perovskite (CH3NH3SnI3) absorber layer and a graphene oxide (GO) hole transport layer. The proposed device demonstrates exceptional power conversion efficiency (PCE), fill factor (FF), temperature stability, and environmental sustainability, all while maintaining low cost. Through simulations and analysis using 1D SCAPS, it is shown that the proposed perovskite solar cell (PSC) achieves a PCE of 22.24% and an FF of 83% at 45 °C, with a quantum efficiency exceeding 85% in the visible spectrum. Furthermore, the proposed PSC maintains its performance at high temperatures ranging from 85 °C to 95 °C, in the wake of incorporation of GO and mesoporous carbon. The optimized value of the proposed PSC is then simulated with the inclusion of the microstructural properties in COMSOL Multiphysics and 20.92% PCE is observed. By avoiding toxic Pb-based materials and incorporating Sn-based materials as well as low-cost and scalable elements such as ZnO, GO, and mesoporous carbon, the proposed device minimizes its environmental impact and processing cost. Overall, this proposed PSC shows great promise as a viable option for large-scale solar energy applications.