High-efficiency lead-free perovskite solar cells

 The problem of global energy demand can be overcome by using an alternative energy source, e.g., solar energy. Recently, it has been established that perovskite materials have a high efficiency in absorbing solar energy, which they can convert into electrical energy. Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are a 4th generation of solar cells and are also called hybrid due to their unique properties and combination of organic and inorganic materials. Perovskites are a class of crystalline materials that are much cheaper than the silicon wafers used in standard solar cells. The efficiency of perovskite cells and the percentage of sunlight converted into electricity have increased at very rapid rates in just a few years. The first such cells, introduced in 2009, achieved only 4% efficiency, far from the 25% efficiency characteristic of standard silicon cells. However, by last year, PSCs were reported to have already achieved over 20% efficiency. This rapid improvement in performance is promising, and researchers are competing to start commercializing perovskite cells. Based on an in-depth literature review, it has been established that the electronic configuration of lead (Pb2+) is primarily responsible for the photovoltaic behavior of these cells. Lead-based materials, however, have limited use, as many countries have strict regulations on the use of heavy metal ions, so research is now focused on lead-free PSCs with comparable efficiency.

 In this proposal, the synthesis of a lead-free stable perovskite material is planned, along with the fabrication of highly stable, eco-friendly, and more efficient PSCs, to ensure a reliable and cost-effective technology for a cleaner and healthier environment. Furthermore, the solar cell will be structurally optimized through an appropriate design of the front panel electrode (transparent conductive layer), using a conductive polymer embedded with metal nanoparticles, which will be applicable to various optoelectronic devices, in addition to solar cells. This coating can serve a dual function, acting simultaneously as the transparent electrode and the hole transport layer, making the cell structure simpler and more cost-effective. The chemical synthesis of perovskite materials, characterization of thin films, and stability testing will be carried out at the Indian organization, utilizing the team's expertise in the chemistry and physics of materials for solar energy. The engineering design of the cell (taking into account thermal and optical considerations), deposition of the multilayer structure with perovskite layers, system-level electrical characterization, and design of the corresponding signal processing electronics will be implemented at the Bulgarian organization, utilizing the team's expertise in electronic manufacturing technologies, microelectronics, various types of measurements, and electronic circuits.

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