In a significant stride towards sustainable energy solutions, researchers have developed a novel approach to enhance the performance and stability of tin halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs), potentially unlocking new avenues for the energy sector. The study, led by Aseel J. Mohammed from the College of Electromechanical Engineering at the University of Technology-Iraq in Baghdad, introduces glycine-functionalized Ti3C2Tx MXene (MXG) as a multifunctional additive to address key challenges in lead-free perovskite solar cells.
Lead-free tin halide perovskites have long been touted as a nontoxic alternative to their lead-based counterparts. However, their practical application has been hindered by issues such as low performance, material instability, and slow charge transfer. The research team’s innovative use of MXG tackles these problems head-on. “The amino groups on MXG play a dual role,” explains Mohammed. “They chemically passivate the under-coordinated Sn sites and iodine vacancies, while also providing moderate reductants to suppress Sn2+ oxidation.”
The MXene’s layered conductive properties further enhance perovskite crystallization, promoting vertical grain orientation for better light absorption and improving interfacial connections between layers. This dual functionality results in better film quality, reduced trap state density, enhanced carrier lifetime, and improved energy level alignment.
The practical implications of this research are substantial. The champion MXG/FASnI3 device demonstrated a power conversion efficiency of 15.82% and maintained over 94% of its initial efficiency after 1000 hours, indicating remarkable stability. “This investigation highlights the dual electrical and structural benefits of MXene engineering toward achieving earth-abundant, efficient, stable, and scalable Sn perovskite PVs,” Mohammed asserts.
The findings, published in the Journal of Science: Advanced Materials and Devices (translated from Arabic as “Journal of Science: Advanced Materials and Devices”), could reshape the future of perovskite solar cells. By addressing critical performance and stability issues, this research brings us closer to commercializing lead-free, efficient, and stable solar cells. The energy sector stands to benefit significantly from these advancements, as the push for sustainable and clean energy solutions continues to gain momentum.
As the world seeks innovative ways to transition to renewable energy sources, this study offers a promising path forward. The dual benefits of MXene engineering demonstrated in this research could pave the way for more efficient and stable perovskite solar cells, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable energy future.