Hybrid perovskite solar cells investigated in operando by synchrotron radiation techniques

• Grant number: 21/01357-6
• Support type: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctorate
• Effective date (Start): August 01, 2021
• Effective date (End): July 31, 2023
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Physical-Chemistry
• Principal researcher: Helio Cesar Nogueira Tolentino
• Grantee: Rodrigo Szostak
• Home Institution: Centro Nacional de Pesquisa em Energia e Materiais (CNPEM). Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovações (Brasil). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The development of sustainable energy sources, in special solar energy, is crucial to humanity and mitigation of global warming. In this context, Perovskite Solar Cells (PSCs) have received significant attention due to the high efficiency achieved in a few years and the low preparation cost. Despite this, the stability of the PSCs remains the most critical issue to be solved, although significant efforts have been made recently. A deeper understanding of the degradation mechanisms in real conditions is still necessary to help design the strategies to improve stability. This project proposes the advanced characterization of the perovskite solar cells in operando conditions (light, temperature, and applied potential) using the synchrotron radiation multi-technique approach combined with nanoscale resolution mapping. The in operando approach allows a finer characterization and understanding of the degradation mechanisms. The samples will be investigated by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption (XAS), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), and X-ray Excited Optical Luminescence (XEOL) techniques by 2D and 3D imaging. The experiments will be performed at Carnaúba (Coherent X-ray Nanoprobe Beamline) at the SIRIUS light source at the LNLS (Brazilian Synchrotron Light Laboratory). The comprehensive set of techniques will unveil the chemical composition, structure, morphology, and optical properties simultaneously. (AU)