Third-generation Photovoltaic Technology Research Articles

A Systematical Study on Bands and Defects of CsBX3 (B = Pb, Sn, Ge, X = Cl, Br, I) Perovskite Based on First Principles.

Metal halide perovskites have attracted considerable attention as novel optoelectronic materials for their excellent optical and electrical properties. Inorganic perovskites (CsPbX3, X = Cl, Br, I) are now viable alternative candidates for third-generation photovoltaic technology because of their high photoelectric conversion efficiency, high carrier mobility, good defect tolerance, simple preparation method and many other advantages. However, the toxicity of lead is problematic for practical implementation. Thus, the fabrication of lead-free perovskite materials and devices has been actively conducted. In this work, the energy band and photoelectric properties of inorganic perovskites CsBX3 (B = Pb, Sn, Ge, X = Cl, Br, I) have been investigated with the first principles calculation, and the possible defect energy levels and their formation energies in different components, in particular, have been systematically studied. The advantages and disadvantages of Sn and Ge as replacement elements for Pb have been demonstrated from the perspective of defects. This study provides an important basis for the study of the properties and applications of lead-free perovskites.

SUIVI DU POINT DE PUISSANCE MAXIMUM DANS UN SYSTÈME DE POMPAGE SOLAIRE PEROVSKITE AVEC UN MOTEUR À INDUCTION SIX PHASE

In this work, the maximum power point (MPP) of a photovoltaic (PV) array utilized as a source of electricity in standalone mode is tracked using a genetic algorithm (GA) as an optimization tool. The major objective of this work is to implement and regulate a six-phase induction motor (SPIM) powered by a centrifugal pump and fed by a perovskite solar array through a three-phase inverter. Perovskite solar cells are the most promising third-generation photovoltaic technology to replace silicon-based photovoltaic. These cells are made cheaply, at a low temperature, and efficiently. The outcomes are then investigated utilizing a SPIM scaler (v/f) closed-loop control. PID controllers are tuned to keep the motor speed aligned with the reference value. The transformer's six-phase secondary is linked to an LC filter to reduce the voltage and current waveform ripple. A test setup was created and installed to investigate the potential of controlling the SPIM fed via a three-to-six-phase transformer. The findings showed that the area needed for the plates when utilizing perovskite solar cells is just 14 % of what it would be if a silicon-based solar array were used for the identical purpose. Perovskite solar cells' tiny surface area helps to prevent partial shading and lower costs. It was discovered that the suggested method works well for powering SPIM from a three-phase source.

Exploring the potential of natural dyes in DSSCs: Innovations for efficient light harvesting and charge separation through Co-sensitization

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are a cost-effective and environmentally benign third-generation photovoltaic technology that is gaining prominence in the changing renewable energy sector. Our study presents the concept of co-sensitization, which involves the combination of TiO2QD with MWCNT/TiO2, in order to improve the efficiency of solar energy conversion greatly. The efficiency of these solar cells is highly dependent on the efficacy of the dye as a photosensitizer. The results indicate that DSSCs employing the co-sensitized approach with TiO2QD achieved an efficiency (η) of 0.331, an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.539 (V), a short circuit current density (Jsc) of 0.095 (mA/cm2), and a fill factor (FF) of 37 %. On the other hand, DSSCs utilizing the MWCNT/TiO2 photoanode demonstrated an efficiency (η) of 0.213 %, an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.509 (V), a short circuit current density (Jsc) of 0.076 (mA/cm2), and a fill factor (FF) of 17 %. In the ever-changing world of renewable energy, cutting-edge methods like co-sensitization could boost solar energy conversion technology efficiency and sustainability. Innovative methods like employing plant leaf dye as photosensitizers for DSSCs are eco-friendly and could cut production costs. Using natural dyes supports sustainable practices and makes solar energy production more affordable and accessible.

Investigation of suitable buffer layer for PbS-TBAI/PbS-EDT colloidal quantum dot solar cell using SCAPS-1D

Colloidal quantum dots (CQD) are emerging third-generation photovoltaic technologies because of their ability to link a wider range of the light spectrum compared to those of perovskite, crystalline, and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) solar cells. In this work, a Lead Sulphide (PbS) CQD solar cell architecture with Ag2S, CdS, ZnSe and ZnS buffer layer is presented. The device consisting of PbS-tetrabutyle ammonium iodide (PbS-TBAI) as an absorber layer, PbS-1,2-ethanedithiol (PbS-EDT) as a hole transport layer (HTL), TiO2 as an electron transport layer (ETL), and fluorine tin oxide (FTO) as an oxide layer. The electrical performances of the solar cells were simulated using SCAPS-1D while taking into account different buffer layers with increasing bandgap values. With ZnS acting as a buffer layer, the computational modelling and analysis of architectural PbS CQD solar cell result in an efficiency of 17.12%. Additionally, the parameters of the solar cell have been studied to be affected by the thickness and bandgap of the absorber and HTL layers, the effect of acceptor concentration with various buffer layers, the impact of temperature, the effect of HTL doping density, and the effect of absorber layer defect density. This study can serve as a guide for future PbS CQD solar cells.

PV Technologies: A Comparative Study of Dye-Sensitized, Organic, and Perovskite Solar Cells

The imminent depletion of conventional energy sources has motivated the advancement of renewable energy technologies. Third-generation photovoltaic technologies, such as dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), organic solar cells (OSCs), and perovskite solar cells (PSCs), are being developed as alternatives to silicon solar cells. These technologies have not yet reached the maturity required for large-scale commercialization. More research is required in order to improve the efficiency of these solar cells, while keeping their production costs to a minimum. In this study, a comparative assessment of Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), Organic solar cells (OSCs), and Perovskite solar cells (PSCs), is conducted. The comparative advantages and limitations of each of these photovoltaic technologies are assessed in terms of device efficiency, durability, fabrication, and performance and find the which solar cell is best among these three.

A Comprehensive Review on Third-Generation Photovoltaic Technologies

The renewable energy industry has revolutionized due to photovoltaic (PV) technologies, which offer a clean and sustainable alternative to conventional energy sources. Third-generation photovoltaic technologies refer to a group of emerging PV technologies aiming to surpass the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of traditional silicon-based solar cells. Different ceramic materials have also been investigated for use in these advanced PV technologies. This review examines the science, current state, and advancements of third-generation PV systems for wide-scale implementation. The first section of this study provides an overview of the development of PV technologies from the first to the third generation, highlighting the most significant novel developments made at each step. Organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), and perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are discussed here as a few new technologies that constitute the third generation, also known as the next generation of advanced PV. This review presents how these devices can be used in specialized settings, including indoor and low-light environments, thereby expanding the range of energy harvesting potential. The brief history of these emerging technologies, their current status, future developments, and key challenges are discussed in this review paper.

Performance Enhancement and Stability Improvement in Perovskite Solar Cells via Interface Functionalization

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have revolutionized the field of photovoltaics, achieving certified power conversion efficiencies reaching 26% at the laboratory scale. High performance, enhanced stability, and long lifetime are prerequisites for the industrialization and commercialization of this class of third-generation photovoltaic technology. Toward the development of well-performing and robust PSCs against environmental stresses, advanced engineering strategies have been employed, targeting the preparation of perovskite absorbing layers with minimal defects and energy-level fine-tuning hydrophobic contacts. Focusing on both the electron transport layer/perovskite and perovskite/hole transport layer interfaces, this review work encompasses some of the most promising engineering methodologies that were recently proposed in order to optimize the device architecture. Machine learning approaches have also been used to validate experimental data and predict with accuracy solar cell parameters, further confirming the significance and justifying the application potential of the proposed innovative interface functionalization approaches.

The Addition of C, Zn-C and Sn-C on Anatase Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells Application

DSSC (dye-sensitized solar cell) is a third-generation photovoltaic technology that can convert solar energy into electric current using a photoelectrochemical mechanism. Photoelectrode is one of the significant elements in DSSC, where photoexcited electrons are generated, and serves as an electron transport medium. Anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2) is often used as photoelectrode material because of its excellent photoactivity, high stability, non-toxicity, environmental friendliness, and low price. Many DSSC modifications have been conducted to overcome the efficiency limitations in DSSC, and one of them is carried out by modifying the TiO2 via doping. In this study, TiO2 doped with C and co-doping with Zn (Zn-C) and Sn (Sn-C) were prepared using sol-gel reactions, and they were subsequently applied and tested as photoelectrode in DSSC. The results showed that undoped and doped TiO2 had a porous spherical morphology with inhomogeneous particle sizes. The addition of C, Zn-C and Sn-C dopants has reduced in the crystallite size and the band gap energy of TiO2. The efficiency of DSSC with undoped TiO2 DSSC was 3.83%, while the best performance was obtained from DSSC C-TiO2 with an efficiency of 4.20%. In contrast, the DSSC with Zn-C-TiO2 and Sn-C-TiO2 co-doping produced unexpectedly lower efficiency of 0.71% and 0.85%, respectively.

Survey of the Achievement of a ZnO Dye-Synthesized Solar Cell

The adoption of renewable energy resources is already becoming incredibly valuable if we are to make the appropriate changes to confront the effects of global warming. Because solar energy is the most widely known form of renewable energy, much focus has been placed on finding quality materials with high energy outputs to replace conventional fossil fuel energy sources. To utilize sun energy for power generation, the dye synthesis solar cell, which belongs to third-generation photovoltaic technology, is likely to compete with more mature silicon technologies. This paper attempts to convey the core idea of dye-synthesized solar cells and the material used to make photoanodes. To find out the contribution of the researcher to the achievement of the dye synthesis solar cell technology, previous studies were reviewed, and the factors that influence performance were analyzed. The research shows that proper optimizations relevant to dopant, light intensity, and type of materials and a new novel approach to increasing photo-electrochemical activity in dye synthesis solar cells could make the devices compete with silicon technology.

Recent Advances and Challenges toward Efficient Perovskite/Organic Integrated Solar Cells

Recently, emerging third-generation photovoltaic technologies have shown rapid progress in device performance; the power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of organic bulk heterojunction (BHJ) and perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are now surpassing 19% and 25%, respectively. Despite this dramatic enhancement, their efficiencies are theoretically limited based on the detailed balance model which accounts for inevitable loss mechanisms under operational conditions. Integrated solar cells, formed by monolithically integrating two photoactive layers of perovskite and BHJ with complementary absorption, provide a promising platform for further improvement in solar cell efficiency. In perovskite/BHJ integrated solar cells (POISCs), high bandgap perovskite offers high open-circuit voltage with minimal losses while low bandgap organic BHJ extends absorption bandwidth by covering the near-infrared region, resulting in additional photocurrent gain. Different from conventional tandem solar cells, integrated solar cells contain merged photoactive layers without the need for complicated recombination layers, which greatly simplifies fabrication processes. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in POISCs, including operational mechanism and structural development, and remaining challenges on the road toward efficient devices.

Recent progress in perovskite solar cells: material science

Perovskite solar cells represent a promising third-generation photovoltaic technology with low fabrication cost and high power conversion efficiency. In light of the rapid development of perovskite materials and devices, a systematic survey on the latest advancements covering a broad range of related work is urgently needed. This review summarizes the recent major advances in the research of perovskite solar cells from a material science perspective. The discussed topics include the devices based on different type of perovskites (organic-inorganic hybrid, all-inorganic, and lead-free perovskite and perovskite quantum dots), the properties of perovskite defects, different type of charge transport materials (organic, polymeric, and inorganic hole transport materials and inorganic and organic electron transport materials), counter electrodes, and interfacial materials used to improve the efficiency and stability of devices. Most discussions focus on the key progresses reported within the recent five years. Meanwhile, the major issues limiting the production of perovskite solar cells and the prospects for the future development of related materials are discussed.

Carbon nanofibers fabricated via electrospinning to guide crystalline orientation for stable perovskite solar cells with efficiency over 24%

Perovskite solar cell (PerSC) is currently-one of the most promising third-generation photovoltaic technologies. However, the defects derived from the inhomogeneous growth of perovskite film exacerbate the charge recombination and ion migration in the devices, thus restricting their power conversion efficiency (PCE) and stability. In this work, we introduce nitrogen-doped carbon nanofibers (N-CNFs) via electrospinning technology to guide the preferential orientation of perovskite crystals for the first time. N-CNFs with abundant nitrogen-containing functional groups provide plentiful nucleation sites and fibrous templates, which guide the preferential orientation growth of crystals and diminish the defects density in the perovskite film. The PCE of the champion device achieved a remarkable improvement from 21.40 % to 24.08 % and demonstrated less than 5 % degradation after 600 h of continuous exposure to the ambient environment. This study provides a novel strategy to realize efficient and stable PerSCs by controlling the heterogeneous nucleation and preferentially oriented growth of perovskite crystals with electrospinning N-CNFs.

High-Efficiency Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells: A Comprehensive Review

Keeping in mind our community's dependency on non-renewable sources of energy, it is a gravitating issue that seeks our attention and requires us to switch to renewable sources of energy at the earliest. A Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) is a third-generation photovoltaic technology that has immense capability to become highly commercial in a few years. Along the same lines, it is necessary to highlight that current DSSCs have shallow lifetime values, stability and performance. The efficiency of current DSSCs and the need to tackle their choice of materials and long-term stability is a concern. Some of the highest recorded efficiency values are around 12%, and this calls for severe replacement of conventional DSSC materials, modifications in the device structure and molecules, and improvement in testing and scaling-up measures. This review article underlines an introduction to DSSCs, working principle, components, high-efficiency DSSCs, strategies to improve device performance, DSSCs research in India, the advantages and disadvantages of the device, and recent research on fruit and flower-based DSSCs. Keywords: Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells, Solar Cell Materials, Third Generation Photovoltaics, High-Efficiency Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells, Solar Cells.

Dynamic Electrical Models of Perovskite Solar Cells Considering Hysteresis and Charge Accumulations Effects by Using Equilibrium Optimizer

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are third-generation photovoltaic technology that has gained a lot of attention due to its technological and economic advantages. The PSCs are characterized with low cost, high absorption, long carrier diffusion length, and low fabrication temperature. To model the performance of PSCs, a new dynamic model is proposed to track the cells hysteresis by adding a variable voltage capacitor to the single, double, and triple diode models. The aim with adding the variable capacitor is to emulate the effect of charge accumulation at the interfaces of the device. Three modified models are presented based on one or more variable capacitors at single, double, and triple diode models. Where, the triple diode model with third order variable voltage capacitor model is the best among all models by 74.9% enhancement in comparison with single diode model. Also, the Equilibrium optimization algorithm (EOA) is proposed to determine the parameters of the proposed dynamic model based on the triple diode model. In comparison with the experimental data, for both forward and reverse scans, the findings showed that the suggested model accurately reflects cell performance. Added to that, the EOA finds well the optimal model parameters considering the root mean square as primary objective function. Based on the simulation results, it was proved that the proposed model gives very close results to reality.

Comparative toxicity of potential leachates from perovskite and silicon solar cells in aquatic ecosystems.

Globally, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) represent a third-generation photovoltaic technology that is being increasingly implemented and commercialized. However, the biological impacts of leachates from PSCs are poorly understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the ecotoxicity of PSC leachates compared with that of commercial Si-based solar cell (SBSC) leachates. We performed leaching assessments and aquatic bioassays using internationally recommended test species and measured and compared the ecotoxicity of PSC and SBSC leachates. As a result of the leaching analyses, Si, Pb, and Al were found to be the most leached elements from broken PSCs and SBSCs. The bioassays indicated that polycrystalline SBSC (p-Si) and monocrystalline SBSC (m-Si) leachates were more toxic to fish embryos than the PSC leachates and that water fleas were sensitive to m-Si leachates, but less sensitive to PSC and p-Si leachates. In addition, principle component analyses indicated that the ecotoxicity of solar cell leachates was related to either the Pb or Si content. This is the first comparative study of the potential ecotoxicity of PSC and SBSC leachates in aquatic ecosystems, and the results of which can be used in the environmentally safe commercialization of solar cells.

Ambient fabrication of perovskite solar cells through delay-deposition technique

The establishment of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) in terms of their power-conversion efficiency (PCE) over silicon-based solar cells is undeniable. The state-of-art of easy device fabrications of PSCs has enabled them to rapidly gain a place in third-generation photovoltaic technology. Numerous obstacles remain to be addressed in device efficiency and stability. Low performance owing to easily degraded surface and deterioration of perovskite film quality resulting from humidity are issues that often arise. This work explored a new approach to producing high-quality perovskite films prepared under high relative humidity (RH = 40%–50%). In particular, the ubiquitous 4-tert-butylpyridine (tBp) was introduced into lead iodide (PbI2) precursor as an additive, and the films were fabricated using a two-step deposition method followed by a delay-deposition technique of methylammonium iodide (MAI). High crystallinity and controlled nucleation of MAI were needed, and this approach revealed the significance of time control to ensure high-quality films with large grain size, high crystallography, wide coverage on substrate, and precise and evenly coupled MAI molecules to PbI2 films. Compared with the two-step method without time delay, a noticeable improvement in PCE from 3.2 to 8.3% was achieved for the sample prepared with 15 s time delay. This finding was primarily due to the significant enhancement in the open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current, and fill factor of the device. This strategy can effectively improve the morphology and crystallinity of perovskite films, as well as reduce the recombination of photogenerated carriers and increase of current density of devices, thereby achieving improved photovoltaic performance.

Current Status of Emerging PV Technologies: A Comparative Study of Dye-Sensitized, Organic, and Perovskite Solar Cells

The imminent depletion of conventional energy sources has motivated the advancement of renewable energy technologies. Third-generation photovoltaic technologies, such as dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), organic solar cells (OSCs), and perovskite solar cells (PSCs), are being developed as alternatives to silicon solar cells. In recent years, there has been considerable interest in the market development of these emerging photovoltaic technologies, especially for sustainable solar energy applications. However, these technologies have not yet reached the maturity required for large-scale commercialization. Further research is required in order to improve the efficiency and stability of these devices, while keeping their production costs to a minimum. In this study, a comparative assessment of DSSCs, OSCs, and PSCs is conducted and the current state of the art of these promising technologies is investigated. Advanced techniques and research trends are examined from the perspective of novel materials, device modelling, and innovative device structures. The comparative advantages and limitations of each of these photovoltaic technologies are assessed in terms of device efficiency, durability, ease of fabrication, and performance-price ratio. Emphasis is placed on assessing the potential of these solar cell technologies for sustainable solar energy applications. Finally, the future outlook of these technologies is featured, and avenues for progress beyond the state of the art are explored.

Spectacular Enhancement of the Thermal and Photochemical Stability of MAPbI3 Perovskite Films Using Functionalized Tetraazaadamantane as a Molecular Modifier

Perovskite solar cells represent a highly promising third-generation photovoltaic technology. However, their practical implementation is hindered by low device operational stability, mostly related to facile degradation of the absorber materials under exposure to light and elevated temperatures. Improving the intrinsic stability of complex lead halides is a big scientific challenge, which might be addressed using various “molecular modifiers”. These modifiers are usually represented by some additives undergoing strong interactions with the perovskite absorber material, resulting in enhanced solar cell efficiency and/or operational stability. Herein, we present a derivative of 1,4,6,10-tetraazaadamantane, NAdCl, as a promising molecular modifier for lead halide perovskites. NAdCl spectacularly improved both the thermal and photochemical stability of methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) films and, most importantly, prevented the formation of metallic lead Pb0 as a photolysis product. NAdCl improves the electronic quality of perovskite films by healing the traps for charge carriers. Furthermore, it strongly interacts with the perovskite framework and most likely stabilizes undercoordinated Pb2+ ions, which are responsible for Pb0 formation under light exposure. The obtained results feature 1,4,6,10-tetraazaadamantane derivatives as highly promising molecular modifiers that might help to improve the operational lifetime of perovskite solar cells and facilitate the practical implementation of this photovoltaic technology.

Efficiency enhancement of low-cost metal free dye sensitized solar cells via non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma surface treatment

Dye sensitized solar cells (DSSC) are an attractive third-generation photovoltaic technology particularly promising for operation under diffuse and lower light conditions. However, high costs of the precious metals used for sensitizing dyes and low charge generation capability parameters limit the utility of DSSCs in comparison to conventional silicon solar cells. In this study, tin oxide (SnO2) photoelectrodes are treated with non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasmas to enhance photovoltaic performance. The effects of nitrogen and argon plasma surface treatment of photoanodes on the efficiency enhancement of DSSCs are systematically investigated by fabricating solar cells using pristine SnO2 and plasma-treated photoanodes. Solar cells made with Eosin Y sensitized pristine SnO2 photoanode exhibited a short circuit current density (JSC) of 1.03 mA cm−2 and an overall power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 0.30% whereas solar cells made with nitrogen plasma treated photoanode exhibited a JSC of 6.20 mA cm−2 and an overall PCE of 1.53% (4 times enhancement) under the same illumination of 100 mW cm−2 (AM 1.5). The efficiency of the solar cells fabricated with Ar plasma treated SnO2 photoanodes also showed an enhanced power conversion efficiency. Further characterizations revealed that the surface plasma treatments increased the surface roughness of the photoanodes. Plasma treatment led to the incorporation of nitrogen species and removal of surface impurities resulting in an increase in dye adsorption in the photoanode and hence the enhancement in the efficiency of the DSSC. This study demonstrated a one-pot treatment method for efficiency enhancement which could be used in various applications such as photovoltaic, catalytic and energy generation applications including DSSCs, thin-film solar cells, perovskite solar cells, gas sensing, bio-sensing, supercapacitors, Li-ion batteries and others.

Research Progress on the Application of Lanthanide-Ion-Doped Phosphor Materials in Perovskite Solar Cells

Perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) are the most promising candidates in third-generation photovoltaic technologies with a certified efficiency of 25.2% within the past decades. They attract increasing ...