Improving Stability in Perovskite Solar Cells Through Bio-Inspired Passivation Strategies

• Grant number: 25/00301-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: June 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - Condensed Matter Physics
• Principal Investigator: Carlos Frederico de Oliveira Graeff
• Grantee: João Vitor Paulin
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências (FC). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Bauru. Bauru , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 20/12356-8 - Stability optimization of perovskite solar cells, AP.TEM

Abstract

This project aims to explore the use of melanin as a passivation layer in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) to address critical challenges such as stability, defect passivation, and moisture resistance. Melanin's unique properties, including its active functional groups (C=O, C-OH, COOH, N-H, S=O, S-CH3), chelation capabilities, and hydrophobic sulfonated groups, make it an excellent candidate for improving the crystallization process, reducing grain boundaries, and enhancing film morphology. These characteristics are expected to lead to more stable and efficient PSCs. The goal is to investigate the influence of melanins on the stability and durability of PSCs, by exploring their defect passivation, metal chelation, and moisture resistance properties. The project includes establishing preparation procedures, structural, morphological, and electrical characterization, as well as manufacturing and device analysis. Beyond enhancing device stability, this study aims to establish bio-inspired materials as viable solutions for renewable energy technologies. The project's findings could contribute to developing lightweight, durable, and environmentally friendly photovoltaic devices, advancing the global transition to sustainable energy.