TITLE:
Optimization of Tin-Doped Hybrid Perovskite Solar Cells
AUTHORS:
Bakary Coulibaly Abou, Ahou Florentine Kokora, Desiré Meledje, Boko Aka, Bernabé Mari Soucase
KEYWORDS:
Cost, Efficiency, Lead/Tin, Perovskite, Toxicity
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Applied Sciences,
Vol.14 No.3,
March
27,
2024
ABSTRACT: Perovskites are a category of
materials with a unique crystal structure that allows them to absorb sunlight
efficiently. This efficiency is particularly high in the case of CH3NH3Pb1-xSnxI3 mixed perovskites. The combination of lead (Pb) and tin (Sn) in this matrix
provides a broad spectrum of sunlight absorption, enabling the generation of a
larger voltage and, subsequently, increased
power. The primary objective in solar cell development is to maximize
the conversion of sunlight into electricity. Mixed perovskites like CH3NH3Pb1-xSnxI3 have demonstrated significant potential in this regard. Their tunable bandgap,
courtesy of varying the Pb: Sn ratio, allows for the optimization of sunlight absorption.
The result is solar cells that surpass many conventional counterparts in terms
of energy efficiency. Another significant advantage of these mixed perovskite
solar cells is their cost-effectiveness. They can be manufactured using
solution-based processes, which are less expensive than the high-vacuum methods
required for traditional silicon solar cells. While the prospects for mixed
perovskite solar cells are undeniably promising, there are concerns about the
toxicity of lead, a key component of these cells. Lead is known to have harmful
effects on the environment and health. The aim of our work is to reduce or
eliminate lead toxicity in the perovskite cell while maintaining its
efficiency. Thus, in a theoretical and experimental
approach, we obtained following efficiencies of samples: CH3NH3PbI3 (22.49%) CH3NH3Pb0.75Sn0.25I3 (22.72%), CH3NH3Pb0.5Sn0.5I3 (23.00%) CH3NH3Pb0.25Sn0.75I3 (22.61%), CH3NH3SnI3 (22.38%). Doping with 50%
tin gives the highest result (23.00%). By replacing a fraction of the lead with
tin, the research aims to reduce the environmental footprint of the cells while
maintaining their high performance. However, the challenge is to achieve a
balance that does not compromise performance while reducing toxicity.