Breakthrough: Greener Perovskite Solar Cells with Antimony-Based Material

• Researchers at Tor Vergata University of Rome have created air-stable perovskite solar modules, addressing toxicity concerns and improving efficiency by 81%.

Researchers at the Center for Hybrid and Organic Solar Energy (CHOSE) at Tor Vergata University of Rome have developed the first air-stable lead (Pb) and tin (Sn)-free perovskite solar modules using an antimony (Sb)-based perovskite-inspired material (PIM) as the light absorber. The use of this material aims to address the potential toxicity of lead and the instability of tin-based perovskites. The introduction of two cations in the precursor mixture improved the power conversion efficiencies of the solar cells by 81% compared to conventional counterparts and increased long-term stability by 60%. The researchers were also able to carry out all three scalable laser patterning steps in air, simplifying the manufacturing process.

The development of these air-stable perovskite solar modules offers potential for large-scale production of greener photovoltaics. Future studies will focus on increasing the efficiencies of these cells.

How have researchers improved the stability and efficiency of perovskite solar modules?

• Researchers have developed the first air-stable perovskite solar modules using an antimony-based perovskite-inspired material (PIM) as the light absorber.
• The use of this material addresses the potential toxicity of lead and the instability of tin-based perovskites.
• The introduction of two cations in the precursor mixture has significantly improved the power conversion efficiencies of the solar cells by 81% compared to conventional counterparts.
  
• The long-term stability of the perovskite solar modules has also been increased by 60%.
• All three scalable laser patterning steps in the manufacturing process can now be carried out in air, simplifying the production process.
• The development of air-stable perovskite solar modules opens up the potential for large-scale production of greener photovoltaics.
• Future studies will focus on further increasing the efficiencies of these perovskite solar cells.