Enhancement Of Photovoltaic Performance Research Articles

Providing a Photovoltaic Performance Enhancement Relationship from Binary to Ternary Polymer Solar Cells via Machine Learning

Ternary polymer solar cells (PSCs) are currently the simplest and most efficient way to further improve the device performance in PSCs. To find high-performance organic photovoltaic materials, the established connection between the material structure and device performance before fabrication is of great significance. Herein, firstly, a database of the photovoltaic performance in 874 experimental PSCs reported in the literature is established, and three different fingerprint expressions of a molecular structure are explored as input features; the results show that long fingerprints of 2D atom pairs can contain more effective information and improve the accuracy of the models. Through supervised learning, five machine learning (ML) models were trained to build a mapping of the photovoltaic performance improvement relationship from binary to ternary PSCs. The GBDT model had the best predictive ability and generalization. Eighteen key structural features from a non-fullerene acceptor and the third components that affect the device’s PCE were screened based on this model, including a nitrile group with lone-pair electron, a halogen atom, an oxygen atom, etc. Interestingly, the structural features for the enhanced device’s PCE were essentially increased by the Jsc or FF. More importantly, the reliability of the ML model was further verified by preparing the highly efficient PSCs. Taking the PM6:BTP-eC9:PY-IT ternary PSC as an example, the PCE prediction (18.03%) by the model was in good agreement with the experimental results (17.78%), the relative prediction error was 1.41%, and the relative error between all experimental results and predicted results was less than 5%. These results indicate that ML is a useful tool for exploring the photovoltaic performance improvement of PSCs and accelerating the design and application with highly efficient non-fullerene materials.

Enhancing Photovoltaic Performance with BaTiO3/MWCNTs Composite Photoelectrodes in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have attracted renewed research interest as a potential low-cost substitute for conventional silicon photovoltaics. This work aims to improve the photovoltaic performance of the DSSCs by incorporating multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) into the BaTiO3 photoelectrode. The pure BaTiO3 and BaTiO3/MWCNT nanocomposites were sensitized with N719 dye and fabricated into solar cell devices for testing. The structural characterization confirmed the successful formation of the nanocomposite with an optimal dispersion at 6% of MWCNT incorporation, beyond which agglomeration effects manifested. The optical analysis verified the modulation of defect states and bandgap engineering induced by the MWCNT network. The morphological studies revealed irregular nanoparticle clusters with embedded nanotubes. Solar cell testing under AM1.5G-simulated sunlight demonstrated a peak power conversion efficiency of 4.044% for 6% of MWCNT doping, constituting a 6-fold increment versus pure BaTiO3 (0.693%). It originated from the simultaneous enhancements in the open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current enabled by the favorable band structure alterations and percolation-assisted charge transport. However, further increasing MWCNT content deteriorated the device metrics, owing to emerging limitations like trapping. The rational integration of multi-walled carbon nanotubes with lead-free ferroelectric metal oxides can contribute to the development of emerging organic-inorganic hybrid solar platforms.

Fabrication of Efficient and Simple-Structured Perovskite Solar Cells Using a Multifunctional Biocolina Surface Treatment.

The electron transport layer (ETL)-free perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have gained significant interest by simplifying the manufacture process and reducing the time/energy required for the fabrication of ETLs. Unfortunately, the performance of these ETL-free PSCs still lags behind those of the conventional counterparts due to the slow electron extraction and undesired interfacial charge recombination loss at the buried interface. In this work, a facile and multifunctional biocolina thin layer is incorporated on the bottom electrodes to regulate the interface energy level alignment by forming an interface dipole layer, resulting in a suppressed nonradiative recombination and an improved charge extraction. Furthermore, the biocolina thin layer possess the capability to passivate the surface defects within the perovskite films while simultaneously facilitate the formation of perovskite crystals. Consequently, a remarkable enhancement in photovoltaic performance is observed in the biocolina-based ETL-free PSCs with an increase from 15.96% to an outstanding 20.01%. Additionally, the biocolina extends the stability and relieves the hysteresis effect through the interface defect passivation and inhibition of interface charge accumulation. This research contributes to the development of cost-effective, simplified designs for highly efficient ETL-free PSCs by modifying the bottom electrodes.

Inclusion of metal nanoparticles at the core-shell interface of GaAs0.99Bi0.01/ZnO/ITO core-shell nanowire solar cell for photovoltaic performance enhancement

Optoelectronic performance analysis of perpendicularly aligned conformally coated GaAs0.99Bi0.01/ZnO/ITO core–shell nanowire solar cell having a core length of 1 μm, core diameter of 160 nm, shell thickness of 10 nm and period of 280 nm, decorated with Au metal nanoparticles(MNPs) of variable diameters at the core–shell interface is done employing FDTD method. Diameter optimization of MNPs with four different diameters values around core GaAs0.99Bi0.01 nanowire is accomplished in terms of maximum short circuit current density (Jsc), which offered an optimized diameter combination of D1 = D2 = 50 nm and D3 = 34 nm, D4 = 10 nm, resulting in a maximum Jsc of 32.6 mA cm−2. A detailed analysis of the electric field profile including its top view and longitudinal view is presented to investigate the distribution of electric field upon optical illumination at different wavelength range. The overall photo generation rate profile is also presented to focus on the localized surface plasmon resonance effect caused by the metal nanoparticles (MNPs). In order to boost the electrical performance, a thin coating of electron selective ZnO shell is used around p type GaAs0.99Bi0.01core, which aids in charge carrier separation, thereby improving open circuit voltage (Voc) and overall power conversion efficiency (PCE). The electrical characteristics of bare NW and MNP decorated GaAs0.99Bi0.01/ZnO core–shell nanowire solar cell for different MNP diameters have been compared. For the optimized diameter combination, as stated above, a Voc of 941 mV, Jsc of 28 mA cm−2, FF of 84.35% and PCE of 22.19% is obtained for SRV of 105 cm s−1 at the interfaces and SRH recombination lifetime as less as 10 ns. For SRV of 105 cm s−1 at the interfaces and SRH recombination lifetime of 1 μs, this proposed structure can achieve a Voc of 1.06 V, Jsc of 31.5 mA cm−2, PCE of 29.37% and FF of 87.88% for equal diameters of D1 = D2 = D3 = D4 = 50 nm.

An Indacenodithienothiophene-Based Wide Bandgap Small Molecule Guest for Efficient and Stable Ternary Organic Solar Cells.

The strategic and logical development of the third component (guest materials) plays a pivotal and intricate role in improving the efficiency and stability of ternary organic solar cells (OSCs). In this study, a novel guest material with a wide bandgap, named IDTR, is designed, synthesized, and incorporated as the third component. IDTR exhibits complementary absorption characteristics and cascade band alignment with the PM6:Y6 binary system. Morphological analysis reveals that the introduction of IDTR results in strong crystallinity, good miscibility, and proper vertical phase distribution, thereby realizing heightened and balanced charge transport behavior. Remarkably, the novel ternary OSCs have exhibited a significant enhancement in photovoltaic performance. Consequently, open-circuit voltage (VOC), short-circuit current (JSC), and fill factor (FF) have all witnessed substantial improvements with a remarkable power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.94% when L8-BO replaced Y6. Beyond the pronounced improvement in photovoltaic performance, superior device stability with a T80 approaching 400h is successfully achieved. This achievement is attributed to the synergistic interplay of IDTR, providing robust support for the overall enhancement of performance. These findings offer crucial guidance and reference for the design and development of efficient and stable OSCs.

Three novel machine learning-based adaptive controllers for a photovoltaic shunt active power filter performance enhancement

This study develops three new machine learning-based algorithms using the SVR prediction approach. The overall objective is to enhance the performance of the PV shunt active power filter (PV-SAPF) in order to successfully fulfil its multi-functionality in terms of PV power generation along with power quality upgrades. The first technique, named "SVR-INC MPPT", incorporates an ML-based duty cycle prediction function, which is intended to speed up the MPP finding process. The algorithm then switches to the INC approach, guaranteeing an accurate steady-state response. The second and third techniques are the ML-based Adaline for DC voltage regulation, and the ML-based Adaline SRF strategy for reference currents generation. The adopted approaches are based on the prediction of two weights performing the actions of the proportional and integral of DC voltage controller, and nine weights for the fundamental currant extraction. The advantage lies in overcoming the Adaline-based algorithm's limitations, requiring an on-line large number of iterations. Three simulation scenarios along with six controllers based on classical and intelligent techniques, are adopted to prove the effectiveness of the proposed ML-controllers. The results display (i) an accurate and immediate ML-based harmonics identification (minimizing the extraction error by up to 99% compared to the Adaline approach). (ii) a response time reduction range from 65% to 100%, of the ML-based DC voltage output controller compared to the PI-based one. (iii) a THD range from 2.41% to 4.45%. (iv) 20 ms and 0% of PV power response time and overshoot, respectively (v) DC voltage overshoot range from 0.04% to 1.1%. Consequently, these three ML-based controllers offer the best options for a powerful PV-SAPF system in terms of performance tracking and harmonic attenuation. Moreover, the obtained metrics comply with IEEE-519 standard.

Enhancing photovoltaic performance of boron nitride quantum dots: A density functional theory study on carbon doping and amino functionalization

This study investigates how carbon doping and amino functionalization influence the electronic structure, light absorption, and photovoltaic performance of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) quantum dots (QDs) through density functional theory calculations. The results indicate that these modifications weaken the chemical bonds and enhance the chemical reactivity of hBN QDs by increasing photoelectron generation and electron transfer, thereby improving photovoltaic performance. Specifically, urea-functionalized carbon-doped hBN QDs exhibit greater chemical reactivity compared to the other hBN QDs, demonstrating superior potential for photovoltaics. Furthermore, carbon doping expands the absorption spectrum, while amino functionalization boosts absorption at certain wavelengths. Among the different functionalization approaches, urea functionalization provides the longest electron-hole recombination time and minimizes non-radiative recombination. These findings will facilitate the development of highly efficient light-absorbing materials by elucidating how strategic doping and functionalization can optimize the photophysical properties of quantum dot materials like hBN for photovoltaic applications.

Theoretical Expedition for Enhancing Photovoltaic Performance: DFT Investigation of Benzo[c][1,2,5] thiadiazole-Based Scaffolds for Organic Solar Cells

Theoretical Expedition for Enhancing Photovoltaic Performance: DFT Investigation of Benzo[<i>c</i>][1,2,5] thiadiazole-Based Scaffolds for Organic Solar Cells

Hybrid optimization strategy for water cooling system: enhancement of photovoltaic panels performance

Abstract Solar energy is the most effective substitute for fossil fuels when it comes to Produce electricity among the numerous renewable energy sources. The efficiency may drop as a result of overheating, and the PV cell may also be harmed. Therefore, increasing the output of a solar PV system at a lower cost is essential to improving its efficiency. Additionally, by using cooling methods, the PV cells’ lifetime is extended. By lowering the working temperature of a PV panel’s surface, you may increase efficiency and slow the thermal deterioration rate. This may be done by module cooling and lowering the heat that the PV cells generate while operating. Hence, an active cooling technology known as optimization-aided water spraying technique is employed to increase efficiency. This method enables the PV panels to provide their maximum output power while taking less time to drop down to a lower surface temperature. Beluga Whale assisted Jellyfish Optimization (BWJO) model is suggested as a means of achieving these goals. Finally, Simulink/MATLAB is used to implement the suggested method and optimize the PV system cooling. The performances of the two components were compared using a variety of metrics.

Enhancing Photovoltaic Performance through Optimized Antisolvent Strategy for Low-Bandgap Pb–Sn Perovskites

Enhancing Photovoltaic Performance through Optimized Antisolvent Strategy for Low-Bandgap Pb–Sn Perovskites

Effect of solvent annealing in the growth of MAPbI3 for perovskite solar cells

Perovskite solar cell (PSC) is recognized as one of the most promising solar cells because of a drastic enhancement in photovoltaic performance. Numerous studies showed that grain size in a perovskite layer plays a vital role in determining the PSC performance. It is expected that the large-sized grains are beneficial for PSCs due to less grain boundaries and reduced non-radiative recombination losses. The perovskite grains can be enlarged by many methods including solvent annealing approach in which an as-prepared perovskite film is annealed under dimethylformamide (DMF) vapor environment. In this work, the effect of the amount of DMF and annealing time on the surface morphology and photovoltaic parameters of PSCs were investigated and compared to the pristine devices. It was found from the inspection with FESEM images that perovskite grains were significantly enlarged as DMF was introduced. As a result, the overall photovoltaic parameters of DMF-based devices are superior to that of the pristine devices. The best device obtained using two rounds of 50 µL DMF for 15 minutes annealing shows maximum power conversion efficiency of 18.0% compared to 15.3% of the pristine devices.

Enhancing photovoltaic performance through solar radiation splitting: A beam splitter-assisted hybrid approach with 2-D tracking and PCM integration

Solar energy is an abundant and environmentally friendly power source; however, its conversion efficiency is limited by the mismatch between the response of photovoltaic (PV) and the solar spectrum. This paper proposes a novel hybrid system that splits solar radiation into visible and thermal components using a beam splitter. Through experimental and theoretical analyses, the study explores the integration of a phase change material (PCM) packed bed with a PV cell as a hybrid system to optimize energy conversion. The experiment is carried out using a 2D tracker. The concentration ratio, determined based on the maximum concentration ratio (MCR) supported by the PV cell, is established as the optimum point. For Silicon PV, the maximum concentration ratios are determined to be 8 and 16 sun for the cases of using and not using the beam splitter, respectively. The ratios of thermal and visible energy, measured at a wavelength of 700 nm, are observed to be 60.66 % and 39.33 % respectively. Under MCR conditions, in the PV system alone, the generated power reaches approximately 850 W/m2, while in the hybrid splitting configuration, it increases to around 1200 W/m2, resulting in a 43 % increase in the system's net power when employing the beam splitter. Furthermore, the study reveals that the utilization factor remains constant at 0.13 across all irradiation ranges for PV-alone systems. In contrast, for the PV/PCM hybrid splitting system, the utilization factor exhibits an increasing trend with higher solar irradiation intensities, reaching values of 0.31, 0.41, and 0.46 for irradiation ranges of 900, 950, and 1000 W/m2, respectively. The findings of this study suggest the potential of using a beam splitter in combination with a 2-D tracker and PCM-packed bed to increase PV efficiency. The proposed configuration demonstrates a substantial enhancement in total net power output, offering a promising avenue for advancing solar energy conversion technologies. Adding PCM to the system has proven to be beneficial, as it addresses the fluctuations in solar radiation and may enhance the total system efficiency.

Photovoltaic performance enhancement on carbon counter electrode based PbS colloidal quantum dots solar cells with surface trap passivation via post-treatment process

Photovoltaic performance enhancement on carbon counter electrode based PbS colloidal quantum dots solar cells with surface trap passivation via post-treatment process

AgIn5S8/ZnS Quantum Dots for Luminescent Down-Shifting and Antireflective Layer in Enhancing Photovoltaic Performance.

Colloidal AgIn5S8/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) have recently emerged as a promising, efficient, nontoxic, down-shifting material in optoelectronic devices. These QDs exhibit a high photoluminescent quantum yield and offer a range of potential applications, specifically in the field of photovoltaics (PVs) for light management. In this work, we report an eco-friendly method to synthesize AgIn5S8/ZnS QDs and deposit them on commercial silicon solar cells (with an active area of 7.5 cm2), with which the short-circuit current (JSC) enhanced by 1.44% and hence the power conversion efficiency by 2.51%. The enhancements in PV performance are mainly attributable to the improved external quantum efficiency in the ultraviolet region and reduced surface reflectance in the ultraviolet and near-infrared regions. We study the effect of QD concentration on the bifunctions of downshifting and antireflection. The optimal 15 mg/mL QDs blade-coated onto the Si solar cells realize maximum current generation as the reflectance loss in the visible wavelength is compensated by the minimized reflection in the near-infrared region.

Enhancing photovoltaic performance of carbon-based perovskite solar cells by introducing plasmonic Au NPs

The plasmonic property of metal nanoparticles could improve the photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this work, the plasmonic Au nanoparticles (Au NPs) was introduced into the SnO2 electron transport layer (ETL), improving the photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) based on carbon electrode by approximately 26.28 %. The device structure is the FTO glass/SnO2/perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3)/carbon electrode. By optimizing the volume of Au NPs, the photocurrent of PSCs increased from 18.49 mA cm−2 to 23.25 mA cm−2 by 25.74 %, and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) from 10.96 % to 13.84 % by 26.28 %. The improved performance of the device is due to the local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of Au NPs, which enhances the optical absorption in the perovskite layer and improves the conductivity of the electron transport layer (ETL). Fluorescence spectroscopy showed that PSCs containing Au NPs reduced the recombination of electron and hole between the interface of ETL and perovskite and could transmit charge faster than PSCs without Au NPs. These results indicate that the plasmonic metal nanoparticles can greatly improve the efficiency of PSCs.

Enhancing photovoltaic performance: Exploring quinoxaline donors in conjunction with Y6 and BTP-4Br small molecule acceptors via DFT calculations

Bulk heterojunction organic solar cells have helped increase power conversion efficiency and characterize and analyze possible factors influencing the improvement of solar-electrical energy conversion. Research in the last decades showed the link between the molecular electronic structure and the morphology of the photoactive layer with the photovoltaic process. Furthermore, both distinctive features are linked to halogenation in the acceptor and donor molecules that constitute the photoactive layer. It is worth mentioning that more attention has been paid to acceptor molecules compared to donors, particularly from the point of view of quantum mechanical calculations. Due to this, in the present work, a systematic study is carried out through density functional theory on the variation of halogenation in donors PBQ5 and PBQ6, which demonstrated outstanding efficiency when introduced into the photoactive layer of an organic solar cell complexed with the Y6 acceptor. Firstly, the correspondence of the electronic structure of both donors with higher efficiency of PBQ6, compared to PBQ5, stands out. An example is the lower position of the HOMO frontier molecular orbital of PBQ6, which predicts a higher open-circuit voltage, just as the experiment shows. Likewise, a smaller gap between the HOMO and LUMO orbitals in PBQ6 proposes an increase in the short-circuit current. The proposal of halogen exchange yields results of significant interest. Theoretical approximations of crucial parameters such as Voc, Jsc, and FF reveal promising avenues for enhancing power conversion efficiency through strategic adjustments in halogenation. In closing, despite the multitude of factors at play in the photoconversion of an organic solar cell—a complexity that poses challenges within the realm of computational theoretical studies—we consider that the uncovered findings can provide valuable insights into the determinants to be manipulated in terms of electronic structure, thereby paving the way for achieving heightened efficiency in photoconversion.

Bifacial and Semitransparent Sb2 (S,Se)3 Solar Cells for Single-Junction and Tandem Photovoltaic Applications.

Thin-film solar cells are expected to play a significant role in the space industry, building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV), indoor applications, and tandem solar cells, where bifaciality and semitransparency are highly desired. Sb2 (S,Se)3 has emerged as a promising new photovoltaic (PV) material for its high absorption coefficient, tunable bandgap, and nontoxic and earth-abundant constituents. However, high-efficiency Sb2 (S,Se)3 solar cells exclusively employ monofacial architectures, leaving a considerable gap toward large-scale application in aforementioned fields. Here, a bifacial and semitransparent Sb2 (S,Se)3 solar cell and its extended application in tandem solar cells are reported. The transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) and the ultrathin inner n-i-p structure provide high long-wavelength transmittance. Despite the MnS/ITO Schottky junction, power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 7.41% and 6.36% are achieved with front and rear illumination, respectively, contributing to a great bifaciality of 0.86. Consequently, the reported device gains great enhancement in PV performance by exploiting albedo of surroundings and shows exceptional capability in absorbing tilt incident light. Moreover, anSb2 (S,Se)3 /Si tandem solar cell with a PCE of 11.66% is achieved in preliminary trials. These exciting findings imply that bifacial and semitransparent Sb2 (S,Se)3 solar cells possess tremendous potential in practical applications based on their unique characteristics.

DFT exploration: Optical and conduction band switching in indaceno donor moiety and its TiO2 adsorbed complexes for an efficient ON-OFF ratio

This research paper explores the potential of solvent-assisted band engineering in an indaceno crystal, 9,18-bis(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)dinaphtho[1,2-d:1,2-d']s-indaceno[1,2-b:5,6-b']bisthiophene (9,18-IDC), and TiO2 adsorbed complexes for breakthroughs in photovoltaic (PV) applications. Using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results demonstrate promising prospects for enhancing PV performance by conduction band (CB) engineering. In UV–Vis analysis, DMSO stands out as the most promising candidate exhibiting an absorption maxima (λmax) of 517 nm. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of solvent-assisted optical and CB engineering in optimizing the efficiency of PV systems. The DMSO was the best solvent, exhibiting an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.92 eV, a fill factor (FF) of 0.8994, a short circuit current (Jsc) of 36.12 mA/cm2, and a maximum incident power (Pmax) of 29.89 W, making it a promising choice for PV applications. This study can pave the way for developing PVs as more efficient and sustainable energy solutions.

Enhancement of photovoltaic module performance using passive cooling (Fins): A comprehensive review

Photovoltaic-thermal (PV/T) technology, combines the benefits of both solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal systems into a single integrated solution. It is a promising renewable energy technology that maximizes solar energy utilization and offers multiple benefits for sustainable power generation. A review and discussion of both active and passive thermal management solutions for PV technology is included in this paper. Using fins on the back of PV is the focus of this paper in terms of its design and performance parameters. Fins are used in air, fluid, nanofluid and PCM cooling PV/T systems. Installing them in these systems improves their performance and increases their electrical and thermal efficiency together in rate range between 8 and 10%. Furthermore, this article examines different approaches to designing and implementing systems, as well as how to optimize results, in addition to exploring potential problems and opportunities. Aiming at creating, manufacturing, utilizing, and potentially promoting high-performance photovoltaic-based technologies and systems which include fins are the purpose of this article.

Investigation of Post-Treatment Improving Perovskite Solar Cells Initial Performances and Study of Its Impact on the Durability

Among alternative perovskite device architectures, mesoporous scaffolds based on metal oxide and carbon look highly promising due to their inherent high stability. In this study, the perovskite deposition has been realized on a 1.5 cm2 active surface area using inkjet infiltration through the mesoporous scaffold, affording a clean industrial process for large-scale and stable perovskite devices. A spectacular enhancement of photovoltaic performances from 10% to 14% was then obtained through the implementation of a maturation step. A study of the occurring mechanisms was conducted using a full set of characterization techniques including J-V measurements, UV–visible and PL spectroscopies, LBIC and PL imaging, XRD, and surface roughness measurements. In addition, the impact of this maturation step on the durability of the performances was investigated.