Thermochromic halide perovskite solar cells

Quantum Dot Interface-Mediated CsPbIBr2 Film Growth and Passivation for Efficient Carbon-Based Solar Cells

CsPbIxBry-based all-inorganic perovskite materials are a potential candidate for stable semitransparent and tandem structured photovoltaic devices. However, poor film (morphological and crystalline) quality and interfacial recombination lead consequently to a decline in the photoelectric conversion performance of the applied solar cells. In this work, we incorporated PbS quantum dots (QDs) at the interface of electron transporting layer (ETL) SnO₂ and perovskite to modulate the crystallization of CsPbIBr₂ and the interfacial charge dynamics in carbon-based solar cells. The as-casted PbS QDs behave as seeds for lattice-matching the epitaxial growth of pinhole-free CsPbIBr₂ films. The modified films with reduced defect density exhibit facilitated carrier transfer and suppressed charge recombination at the ETL/perovskite interface, contributing to an enhanced device efficiency from 7.00 to 9.09% and increased reproducibility and ambient stability. This strategic method of QD-assisted lattice-matched epitaxial growth is promising to prepare high-quality perovskite films for efficient perovskite solar cells.

Rational Surface-Defect Control via Designed Passivation for High-Efficiency Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells

Iodine vacancies (V_I ) and undercoordinated Pb²⁺ on the surface of all-inorganic perovskite films are mainly responsible for nonradiative charge recombination. An environmentally benign material, histamine (HA), is used to passivate the V_I in perovskite films. A theoretical study shows that HA bonds to the V_I on the surface of the perovskite film via a Lewis base-acid interaction; an additional hydrogen bond (H-bond) strengthens such interaction owing to the favorable molecular configuration of HA. Undercoordinated Pb²⁺ and Pb clusters are passivated, leading to significantly reduced surface trap density and prolonged charge lifetime within the perovskite films. HA passivation also induces an upward shift of the energy band edge of the perovskite layer, facilitating interfacial hole transfer. The combination of the above raises the solar cell efficiency from 19.5 to 20.8 % under 100 mW cm^-2 illumination, the highest efficiency so far for inorganic metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs).

Performance Enhancement of All-Inorganic Carbon-Based CsPbIBr2 Perovskite Solar Cells Using a Moth-Eye Anti-Reflector

All-inorganic carbon-based CsPbIBr₂ perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted increasing interest due to the low cost and the balance between bandgap and stability. However, the relatively narrow light absorption range (300 to 600 nm) limited the further improvement of short-circuit current density (J_SC) and power conversion efficiency (PCE) of PSCs. Considering the inevitable reflectance loss (~10%) at air/glass interface, we prepared the moth-eye anti-reflector by ultraviolet nanoimprint technology and achieved an average reflectance as low as 5.15%. By attaching the anti-reflector on the glass side of PSCs, the J_SC was promoted by 9.4% from 10.89 mA/cm² to 11.91 mA/cm², which is the highest among PSCs with a structure of glass/FTO/c-TiO₂/CsPbIBr₂/Carbon, and the PCE was enhanced by 9.9% from 9.17% to 10.08%. The results demonstrated that the larger J_SC induced by the optical reflectance modulation of moth-eye anti-reflector was responsible for the improved PCE. Simultaneously, this moth-eye anti-reflector can withstand a high temperature up to 200 °C, and perform efficiently at a wide range of incident angles from 40° to 90° and under various light intensities. This work is helpful to further improve the performance of CsPbIBr₂ PSCs by optical modulation and boost the possible application of wide-range-wavelength anti-reflector in single and multi-junction solar cells.

Tuning of the Interconnecting Layer for Monolithic Perovskite/Organic Tandem Solar Cells with Record Efficiency Exceeding 21

The photovoltaic performance of inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) still lags behind the organic-inorganic hybrid PSCs due to limited light absorption of wide bandgap CsPbI_3-xBr_x under solar illumination. Constructing tandem devices with organic solar cells can effectively extend light absorption toward the long-wavelength region and reduce radiative photovoltage loss. Herein, we utilize wide-bandgap CsPbI₂Br semiconductor and narrow-bandgap PM6:Y6-BO blend to fabricate perovskite/organic tandem solar cells with an efficiency of 21.1% and a very small tandem open-circuit voltage loss of 0.06 V. We demonstrate that the hole transport material of the interconnecting layers plays a critical role in determining efficiency, with polyTPD being superior to PBDB-T-Si and D18 due to its low parasitic absorption, sufficient hole mobility and quasi-Ohmic contact to suppress charge accumulation and voltage loss within the tandem device. These perovskite/organic tandem devices also display superior storage, thermal and ultraviolet stabilities.

A smart material built upon the photo-thermochromic effect and its use for managing indoor temperature

We demonstrate a material by dispersing a thermochromic mixture of leuco dye, developer, and solvent as microspheres in a polymer matrix to improve the efficiency of building energy management. The smart, photo-thermochromic film can automatically switch between a colored and colorless state in response to climate temperature and light to realize photothermal heating and cooling.

Electrochemical synthesis of annealing-free and highly stable black-phase CsPbI3 perovskite

All-inorganic CsPbI₃ halide perovskite has become a hot research topic for applications in next-generation optoelectronic devices. However, the main limitations are the high-temperature synthesis and poor phase stability. In this study, we demonstrate a unique solution-phase strategy for the low-temperature preparation of black-phase CsPbI₃ by in situ electrochemistry. By controllable adjustment of the electrochemical growth process, annealing-free black-phase CsPbI₃ can be synthesized. The black-phase CsPbI₃ showed high-purity red photoluminescence at approximately 690 nm with ultra-high environmental stability for up to 11 days at a high relative humidity of 70%. The underlying mechanisms of the formation of the highly stable black-phase CsPbI₃ at room temperature have been discussed in this study. The results provide a new platform for the large scale, low-temperature, and convenient synthesis of black-phase CsPbI₃ perovskite.

Interfaces and Interfacial Layers in Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells

Owing to their superior thermal stability, metal halide inorganic perovskite materials continue to attract interest for photovoltaics applications. The highest reported power conversion efficiency (PCE) for solar cells based on inorganic perovskites is over 20 %. As this PCE corresponds to 73 % of the theoretical limit, there remains more room for further improving the device PCEs than for improving organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The main loss is in the photovoltage, which is limited by interfaces in terms of non-radiative recombination caused by traps and energy-level mismatch. Furthermore, inefficient charge extraction at interfacial contacts reduces the photocurrent and fill factor. This Minireview summarizes the recent developments in the fundamental understanding of how the interfaces and interfacial layers influence the performance of solar cells based on inorganic perovskite absorbers. An outlook for the development of highly efficient and stable inorganic PSCs from the interface point of view is also given.

Stiffening the Pb-X Framework through a π-Conjugated Small-Molecule Cross-Linker for High-Performance Inorganic CsPbI2Br Perovskite Solar Cells

Inorganic CsPbI₂Br perovskites have witnessed incredible advances as a promising representative for translucent and tandem solar cells, but unfortunately, they are still plagued by serious energy losses and undesired phase instability. Herein, a new type of π-conjugated small molecule of 4-guanidinobenzoic-acid-hydrochloride (4-GBACl) is demonstrated to effectively cross-link the Pb-X framework of perovskites. The strong coordination between 4-GBACl and the [PbX₆]^4- octahedron of perovskites effectively stiffens the Pb-X framework to suppress the ion migration, thus stabilizing the perovskite phase structure against light and thermal conditions. Apart from the physical barrier for phase instability resulting from the hydrophobic benzene ring at grain boundaries (GBs), guanidinium cations and -COOH and Cl^- groups can simultaneously afford the passivation of positively and negatively charged defects at the GBs and surface, including undercoordinated halide species and undercoordinated Pb²⁺ ions, thereby effectively inhibiting the charge trapping/recombination centers. Two-dimensional confocal-fluorescence mapping images provide a visualized sight into the significantly suppressed nonradiative recombination and the prolonged carrier lifetime. It is suggested that the 4-GBACl additive plays multiple roles in grain cross-linking to regulate crystallization, distinctly reducing the trap-state density, ion migration inhibition, and moisture barrier in CsPbI₂Br films. Consequently, the 4-GBACl-treated device exhibits a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.59% accompanied with a considerably improved V_oc of 1.28 V and maintains 88% of the initial PCE value after 1200 h aging under 20% relative humidity.

Blue-Violet Emission with Near-Unity Photoluminescence Quantum Yield from Cu(I)-Doped Rb3InCl6 Single Crystals

Low-dimensional metal halides have attracted considerable attention due to their unique optoelectronic properties. In this study, we report a solid-state synthesis of air-stable all-inorganic Pb-free zero-dimensional (0D) Rb₃InCl₆ single crystals (SCs). By a heterovalent doping of Cu⁺ ions, the Rb₃InCl₆:Cu⁺ SCs featured an efficient blue-violet emission with a greatly enhanced photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield (95%) and an ultralong PL lifetime (13.95 μs). Combined with temperature-dependent PL and density functional theory calculations, we conclude that the efficient electronic isolation, enhanced exciton-phonon coupling, and electronic structure modulation after doping lead to bright blue-violet emission. Furthermore, the SCs exhibited excellent stability, maintaining 90% of the initial PL intensity after being stored in ambient conditions for more than two months. The results provide a new strategy for improving the optoelectronic properties of 0D all-inorganic metal halides, which is promising for potential light-emitting applications.

Stability of Perovskite Solar Cells: Degradation Mechanisms and Remedies

Inorganic–organic metal halide perovskite light harvester-based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have come to the limelight of solar cell research due to their rapid growth in efficiency. At present, stability and reliability are challenging aspects concerning the Si-based or thin film-based commercial devices. Commercialization of perovskite solar cells remains elusive due to the lack of stability of these devices under real operational conditions, especially for longer duration use. A large number of researchers have been engaged in an ardent effort to improve the stability of perovskite solar cells. Understanding the degradation mechanisms has been the primary importance before exploring the remedies for degradation. In this review, a methodical understanding of various degradation mechanisms of perovskites and perovskite solar cells is presented followed by a discussion on different steps taken to overcome the stability issues. Recent insights on degradation mechanisms are discussed. Various approaches of stability enhancement are reviewed with an emphasis on reports that complied with the operational standard for practical application in a commercial solar module. The operational stability standard enacted by the International Electrotechnical Commission is especially discussed with reports that met the requirements or showed excellent results, which is the most important criterion to evaluate a device’s actual prospect to be utilized for practical applications in commercial solar modules. An overall understanding of degradation pathways in perovskites and perovskite solar cells and steps taken to overcome those with references including state-of-the-art devices with promising operational stability can be gained from this review.

Research on the influence of polar solvents on CsPbBr3 perovskite QDs

All-inorganic CsPbX₃ (X = Cl, Br, I) perovskite quantum dots (QDs) have become a kind of optoelectronic material with huge application prospects due to their excellent physical and optical properties. However, their poor structural stability to the external environment, especially polar solvents, seriously hinder further development in practical applications. Considering whether polar solvents have the same effects on perovskites QDs, few studies have been investigated in this area presently. In order to find out the effect of different polar solvents on all-inorganic perovskite QDs, in this work, we select 12 kinds of polar solvents of methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, 1-butanol, 1-pentanol, 1-octanol, N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA), ethyl acetate, n-butyl acetate, dibutyl phthalate and acetone for a specific analysis. The characterization of their morphology, optical and physicochemical properties shows that different polar solvents have different effects on all-inorganic perovskite QDs, but their effects are regular. Polar solvents act on the ligands preferentially, and the effects can be divided into: reducing the concentration of ligands; substituting ligands partially; completely destroying the surface ligands; polar solvents with the same functional group, as the polarity of the solvent increases, the impact on all-inorganic perovskite QDs is greater. We believe that this discovery has important implications for improving the stability of all-inorganic perovskite QDs.

Trojans That Flip the Black Phase: Impurity-Driven Stabilization and Spontaneous Strain Suppression in γ-CsPbI3 Perovskite

The technological progress and widespread adoption of all-organic CsPbI₃ perovskite devices is hampered by its thermodynamic instability at room temperature. Because of its inherent tolerance toward deep trap formation, there has been no shortage to exploring which dopants can improve the phase stability. While the relative size of the dopant is important, an assessment of the literature suggests that its relative size and impact on crystal volume do not always reveal what will beneficially shift the phase transition temperature. In this perspective, we analyze the changes in crystal symmetry of CsPbI₃ perovskite as it transforms from a thermodynamically stable high-temperature cubic (α) structure into its distorted low-temperature tetragonal (β) and unstable orthorhombic (γ) perovskite structures. Quantified assessment of the symmetry-adapted strains which are introduced due to changes in temperature and composition show that the stability of γ-CsPbI₃ is best rationalized from the point of view of crystal symmetry. In particular, improved thermal-phase stability is directly traced to the suppression of spontaneous strain formation and increased crystal symmetry at room temperature.

Multispectral Graphene-Based Electro-Optical Surfaces with Reversible Tunability from Visible to Microwave Wavelengths

Optical materials with colour-changing abilities have been explored for display devices¹, smart windows^2,3, or modulation of visual appearance^4-6. The efficiency of these materials, however, has strong wavelength dependence, which limits their functionality to a specific spectral range. Here, we report graphene-based electro-optical devices with unprecedented optical tunability covering the entire electromagnetic spectrum from the visible to microwave. We achieve this non-volatile and reversible tunability by electro-intercalation of lithium into graphene layers in an optically accessible device structure. This unique colour-changing capability, together with area-selective intercalation, inspires fabrication of new multispectral devices, including display devices and electro-optical camouflage coating. We anticipate that these results provide realistic approaches for programmable smart optical surfaces with a potential utility in many scientific and engineering fields such as active plasmonics and adaptive thermal management.

CsPbX3 -ITO (X = Cl, Br, I) Nano-Heterojunctions: Voltage Tuned Positive to Negative Photoresponse

All-Inorganic perovskite CsPbX₃ (X = Cl, Br, I) quantum dots (QDs) have attracted tremendous attention in the past few years for their appealing performance in optoelectronic applications. Major properties of CsPbX₃ QDs include the positive photoconductivity (PPC) and the defect tolerance of the in-band trap states. Here it is reported that when hybridizing CsPbX₃ QDs with indium tin oxide (ITO) nanocrystals to form CsPbX₃ -ITO nano-heterojunctions (NHJs), a voltage tuned photoresponse-from PPC to negative photoconductivity (NPC) transform-is achieved in lateral drain-source structured ITO/CsPbX₃ -ITO-NHJs/ITO devices. A model combining exciton, charge separation, transport, and most critical the voltage driven electron filling of the in-band trap states with drain-source voltage (V_DS ) above a threshold, is proposed to understand this unusual PPC-NPC transform mechanism, which is different from that of any known nanomaterial system. This finding exhibits potentials for developing devices such as photodetectors, optoelectronic switches, and memories.

2D Lead Iodide Perovskite with Mercaptan-Containing Amine and Its Exceptional Water Stability

Two dimensional (2D) hybrid perovskites have attracted a great deal of interest because of their appropriate photovoltaic efficiency and environmental stability. Although some 2D hybrid perovskites with sulfur-containing amines have been reported, the cation having the mercaptan group has not been well explored yet. In this work, cysteamine (Cya, HS(CH₂)₂NH₂), a mercaptan-containing amine, was introduced into 2D hybrid perovskite. Two 2D lead iodides with different structures, (HCya)₂PbI₄ (1) and (HCya)₇Pb₄I₁₅ (2), were isolated as a red low-temperature phase and a yellow high-temperature phase, respectively. X-ray single-crystal structural analysis showed that the red phase 1 is a single layered corner-shared perovskite and that the yellow phase 2 is a corner/edge-shared quasi-2D perovskite. A thermo-induced reversible 1 to 2 phase transition was found in this synthetic system. The configuration of HCya cation greatly influences the crystallization equilibrium, generating different structures of the lead halides. The single-crystal structure of 1 is discussed in comparison with that of (HAE)₂PbI₄ (AE = HO(CH₂)₂NH₂), an analogue of 1. The different effects of OH and SH groups on the 2D frameworks are studied based on their hydrogen bonding properties. More remarkably, although the two perovskites have similar structures, the (HCya)₂PbI₄ (1) has an intrinsic water stability that is much more stable than (HAE)₂PbI₄, which should be attributed to the affinity of the SH group with lead on the surface of the lead halide.

Full-frame and high-contrast smart windows from halide-exchanged perovskites

Window glazing plays an essential role to modulate indoor light and heat transmission, which is a prospect to save the energy cost in buildings. The latest photovoltachromic technology has been regarded as one of the most ideal solutions, however, to achieve full-frame size (100% active area) and high-contrast ratio (>30% variable in visible wavelength) for smart window applicability is still a challenge. Here we report a photovoltachromic device combining full-transparent perovskite photovoltaic and ion-gel based electrochromic components in a vertical tandem architecture without any intermediated electrode. Most importantly, by accurately adjusting the halide-exchanging period, this photovoltachromic module can realize a high pristine transmittance up to 76%. Moreover, it possesses excellent colour-rendering index to 96, wide contrast ratio (>30%) on average visible transmittance (400-780 nm), and a self-adaptable transmittance adjustment and control indoor brightness and temperature automatically depending on different solar irradiances.

Window glazing plays a crucial role in modulating indoor light and heat transmission, which is beneficial for energy saving. Here, Liu et al. report a full-frame and high-contrast smart windows made of perovskite photovoltaic and ion-gel electrochromic components to realise self-adjusting brightness and temperature regulator.

Water-Triggered Transformation of Ligand-Free Lead Halide Perovskite Nanocrystal-Embedded Pb(OH)Br with Ultrahigh Stability

Lead halide perovskite (LHP) nanomaterials have attracted tremendous attention owing to their remarkable optoelectronic properties. However, they are extremely unstable under moist environments, high temperatures, and light illumination due to their intrinsic structural lability, which has been the critical unsolved problem for practical applications. To address this issue, we propose a facile and environmentally friendly ligand-free approach to design and synthesize rod-like CsPb₂Br₅-embedded Pb(OH)Br with excellent stability under various harsh environments such as soaking in water, heating, and ultraviolet (UV) illumination. Plate-like CsPbBr₃- and Cs₄PbBr₆-embedded Pb(OH)Br powders are first formed by evaporating the solvent in a dispersion of ethanol (or methanol, isopropanol), Cs₂CO₃, and PbBr₂. Upon soaking in water, the plate-like sample undergoes phase transformation from CsPbBr₃ and Cs₄PbBr₆ to CsPb₂Br₅ and shape conversion from nanoplate to a microrod, leading to the formation of rod-like CsPb₂Br₅-embedded Pb(OH)Br. The stable Pb(OH)Br coating effectively prevents the luminescent CsPb₂Br₅ nanocrystals from reacting with water, leading to extremely high aqueous stability of the CsPb₂Br₅-embedded Pb(OH)Br. The photoluminescence (PL) intensity of the representative CsPb₂Br₅-embedded Pb(OH)Br sample can maintain 92.2% of the initial PL intensity value even after soaking in room-temperature water for 165 days; in the meantime, the phase and shape are preserved. The typical sample also shows outstanding stability under hot water, UV illumination, and annealing conditions. The ultrahigh aqueous stability, thermal stability, and photostability of the CsPb₂Br₅-embedded Pb(OH)Br nanomaterials suggest an effective, facile, and environmentally friendly technique to grow perovskite-based nanomaterials for promising practical applications in the optoelectronic field.

Towards ferroelectricity-inducing chains of halogenoantimonates(iii) and halogenobismuthates(iii)

In halogenoantimonate(iii) and halogenobismuthate(iii) organic–inorganic hybrids, chains of trans-connected octahedra, trans-[MX₅]_∞, are considered attractive anionic structures for inducing ferroelectricity. The latter is realized by displacing the bridging halogen atoms along the chain direction – the process that changes the polarity of the whole unit. Advances in the identification of such materials have been hindered, however, by substantial difficulty in obtaining such structures. Here we investigate structural and dielectric properties of three families of compounds based on 2-mercaptopyrimidinium, 2-aminopyrimidinium, and 2-amino-4-methylpyrimidinium cations in which 8 out of 12 compounds show trans-[MX₅]_∞ chains in their crystal structures. Two of the compounds adopt a polar P2₁ space group and are potentially ferroelectric. We perform a detailed structural analysis of all compounds with trans-[MX₅]_∞ chains discovered by far to understand the factors that lead to the chains' formation. We reveal that the size of a cation predominantly defines the accessibility of structures with this anionic form and we provide rules for designing hybrids with trans-[MX₅]_∞ chains to help guide future efforts to engineer materials with interesting non-linear electrical properties.

A discovered abundance of structures with rare and highly-desired anionic chains is examined to identify structural factors leading to the chains' formation.

Pressure-Triggered Blue Emission of Zero-Dimensional Organic Bismuth Bromide Perovskite

Understanding the structure-property relationships in Zero-dimensional (0D) organic-inorganic metal halide perovskites (OMHPs) is essential for their use in optoelectronic applications. Moreover, increasing the emission intensity, particularly for blue emission, is considerably a challenge. Here, intriguing pressure-induced emission (PIE) is successfully achieved from an initially nonluminous 0D OMHP [(C6H11NH3)4BiBr6]Br·CH3CN (Cy4BiBr7 ) upon compression. The emission intensity increases significantly, even reaching high-efficiency blue luminescence, as the external pressure is increased to 4.9 GPa. Analyses of the in situ high-pressure experiments and first-principle calculations indicate that the observed PIE can be attributed to the enhanced exciton binding energy associated with [BiBr6]3- octahedron distortion under pressure. This study of Cy4BiBr7 sheds light on the relationship between the structure and optical properties of OMHPs. The results may improve potential applications of such materials in the fields of pressure sensing and trademark security.

Antisolvent engineering on low-temperature processed CsPbI3 inorganic perovskites for improved performances of solar cells

CsPbI₃ inorganic perovskites with ideal bandgap and much enhanced thermal stability compared with organic-inorganic hybrid perovskites, have attracted much interest in the field of solar cells. The performances of solar cells highly depend on the quality of perovskite films, yet the research on fabrication methods of inorganic perovskites is far below that of organic-inorganic hybrid counterparts. Antisolvent engineering is a widely used method in controlling the morphology and crystallinity of organic-inorganic hybrid perovskites. Its effect varies with parameters such as the physicochemical properties of antisolvents and the compositions of perovskite precursors. Specially, there lacks a comprehensive study comparing different antisolvents used in low-temperature processed CsPbI₃ from dimethylammonium-based precursors. In this work, we used three different antisolvents to control the growth of CsPbI₃ films in a low-temperature (<200 °C) processed procedure and systematically compared the properties of resultant films. The green antisolvent ethyl acetate (EA) engineered CsPbI₃ films exhibit improved morphology and crystallinity as well as reduced defects, compared with the counterparts processed without antisolvent or those with widely employed toxic antisolvents toluene and chlorobenzene. The EA antisolvent engineering results in efficient CsPbI₃ perovskite solar cells with a champion power conversion efficiency of 8.8%. Our work thus provides a green and viable way to prepare high quality CsPbI₃ perovskite films for optoelectronic applications.

Surface Defect Passivation and Energy Level Alignment Engineering with a Fluorine-Substituted Hole Transport Material for Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells

The surface and boundary defects present in the perovskite film are reported to be nonradiative recombination and degradation centers, restricting further improvement of the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and long-term stability of perovskite solar cells. To address this problem, herein, we introduce a fluorine-substituted small molecular material 2FBTA-1 as a bifunctional buffer layer to efficiently passivate the surface defects of perovskite and tune the energy level alignment between the perovskite/2,2',7,7'-tetrakis(N,N-di-(p-methoxyphenyl)amino)-9,9'-spirobifluorene (Spiro-OMeTAD) interface. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy shows that with the insertion of 2FBTA-1 between perovskite and Spiro-OMeTAD, the metallic Pb⁰ defects and uncoordinated Pb²⁺ defects are well restricted. Consequently, the average PCE is distinctly improved from 18.4 ± 0.51 to 20.3 ± 0.40%. Moreover, the long-term stability of unencapsulated devices with 2FBTA-1 treatment under ambient conditions (relative humidity 40-60%) is effectively enhanced, retaining 87% of the initial efficiency after storage for 500 h.

Robust and Swiftly Reversible Thermochromic Behavior of a 2D Perovskite of (C6H4(CH2NH3)2)(CH3NH3)[Pb2I7] for Smart Window and Photovoltaic Smart Window Applications

Highly robust, swiftly reversible thermochromic nature of a two-dimensional (2D) perovskite of (PDMA)(CH₃NH₃)_n-1Pb_nI_3n+1, nominally prepared as n = 2 is found, where PDMA = C₆H₄(CH₂NH₃)₂. A wide band gap variation from 700 to 430 nm is observed between room temperature and >60 °C under ambient conditions, resulting from moisture absorption and desorption. X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy are performed to analyze the hydrated and dehydrated states. Furthermore, the (PDMA)(CH₃NH₃)_n-1Pb_nI_3n+1 film is demonstrated as an active material for smart windows and thermochromic solar cells, which could lower the inside air temperature in an enclosed space and supply a power conversion efficiency of more than 0.5% at a high ambient temperature, respectively. Overall, we may pave a pathway for exploring the novel phenomena and applications of Dion-Jacobson 2D perovskites.

First-Principles Study on Optic-Electronic Properties of Charge-Ordered Indium Halide Perovskite Cs2In(I)In(III)Cl6 at High Pressure

Using the first principle method we studied, theoretically and in detail, the structural, optical, and electronic properties of a charge-ordered indium halide perovskite Cs2In(I)In(III)Cl6 at high pressure. In this structure, In1, In2, and In3 are octahedrally coordinated, whereas In4 is at the center of a pentagonal bipyramid. The charge of In on In1 and In2 sites can be assigned to 3+, while In+ occupies In3 and In4 sites. The results indicated that the band gap decreases, and the electron excitation produces the red-shift of peak value of optical absorption coefficient in visible and infrared regions with increasing pressure, and the reflectivity decreases in visible and infrared regions with increasing pressure. These theoretical results provide a basis for designing related inorganic halide perovskites.

Thermochromism and piezochromism of an atomically precise high-nuclearity silver sulfide nanocluster

A novel high-nuclearity silver sulfide nanocluster [Ag₅₀S₇(SC₆H₄F)₃₆(dppp)₆]·4DMI, (hereafter abbreviated as 1⋅4DMI) was synthesised. Solvent-free crystals of 1 displayed a completely reversible narrowing and broadening of the optical band gap that was accompanied by visual thermochromism and piezochromism changeovers, when stimulated by varying temperatures between 113 and 413 K or by changing the pressure from 1 atm to 7.5 GPa.

Intermediate-Adduct-Assisted Growth of Stable CsPbI2 Br Inorganic Perovskite Films for High-Efficiency Semitransparent Solar Cells

Thanks to the tunable bandgap and excellent photoelectric characteristics, perovskites have been widely used in semitransparent solar cells (ST-SCs). Most works present unsatisfactory power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) through reducing the thickness of the perovskite films because there is a trade-off between PCE and average visible transmittance (AVT). As a consequence, most PCEs are less than 12% when the AVT is higher than 20% due to the limited voltage (V_oc ) and short-circuit current (J_sc ). Herein, a strategy of intermediate adduct (IMAT) engineering is developed to improve the film quality of the inorganic perovskite CsPbI₂ Br, which is a challenging issue to limit its performance of efficiency and stability. A normal n-i-p-structured PSC based on the optimal CsPbI₂ Br film delivers a PCE of 16.02% with excellent stability. Furthermore, through optimizing the electrode type and interface, the ST-PSC shows a high V_oc larger than 1.2 V and the PCE reaches 14.01% and 10.36% under an AVT of 31.7% and 40.9%, respectively. This is the first demonstration of a CsPbI₂ Br ST-PSC, and it outperforms most of other types of perovskites.

Implementing Dopant-Free Hole-Transporting Layers and Metal-Incorporated CsPbI2Br for Stable All-Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells

Mixed-halide CsPbI₂Br perovskite is promising for efficient and thermally stable all-inorganic solar cells; however, the use of conventional antisolvent methods and additives-based hole-transporting layers (HTLs) currently hampers progress. Here, we have employed hot-air-assisted perovskite deposition in ambient condition to obtain high-quality photoactive CsPbI₂Br perovskite films and have extended stable device operation using metal cation doping and dopant-free hole-transporting materials. Density functional theory calculations are used to study the structural and optoelectronic properties of the CsPbI₂Br perovskite when it is doped with metal cations Eu²⁺ and In³⁺. We experimentally incorporated Eu²⁺ and In³⁺ metal ions into CsPbI₂Br films and applied dopant-free copper(I) thiocyanate (CuSCN) and poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT)-based materials as low-cost hole transporting layers, leading to record-high power conversion efficiencies of 15.27% and 15.69%, respectively, and a retention of >95% of the initial efficiency over 1600 h at 85 °C thermal stress.

Gradient-Band Alignment Homojunction Perovskite Quantum Dot Solar Cells

The inorganic perovskite CsPbI₃ that exists in the form of a quantum dot (QD) shows a stable cubic structure, attracting much attention for its application in solar cells. However, too many grain boundaries in the perovskite QD (PQD) layer block the transport of carriers, resulting in the potential loss of solar cells. Herein, we devise a gradient-band alignment (GBA) homojunction, which is constructed from three layers of PQDs with different band-gaps to form a gradient energy alignment. The GBA structure facilitated the charge extraction and increased the carrier diffusion length of the PQD layer because of the additional driving force for the electrons. In addition, the homojunction made from the same substance could minimize the lattice mismatch of the active layer. As a result, the champion solar cell based on the GBA homojunction layer achieved a high open voltage V_OC of 1.25 V and a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 13.2%.

Smart Window Based on Angular-Selective Absorption of Solar Radiation with Guest–Host Liquid Crystals

In this study, we analyzed angular-selective absorption in a guest–host liquid crystal (GHLC) cell for its application in smart windows. For reducing the energy consumption, angular-selective absorption is desired because the light transmitted through windows during the daytime is predominantly incident obliquely from direct sunlight. Owing to the absorption anisotropy of guest dichroic dyes, a GHLC cell can absorb the obliquely incident light, while allowing people to see through windows in a normal view. Therefore, the cell can provide a comfortable environment for occupants, and reduce the energy required for cooling by blocking the solar heat incident from the oblique direction. The GHLC cell can be switched between the transparent and opaque states for a normal view. The rising (falling) time was 6.1 (80.5) ms when the applied voltage was 10 V.

Suppressing Halide Phase Segregation in CsPbIBr2 Films by Polymer Modification for Hysteresis-Less All-Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells

All-inorganic perovskite CsPbIBr₂ materials are promising for optoelectronics, owing to their upgraded ambient stability and suitable bandgap. Unfortunately, they generally undergo severe halide phase segregation under illumination, which creates many iodide-rich and bromide-rich domains coupled with significant deterioration of their optical/electrical properties. Herein, we propose a facile and effective strategy to overcome the halide phase segregation in the CsPbIBr₂ film by modifying its crystalline grains with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) for the first time. Such a strategy is proceeded by covering a PMMA layer on the substrate before deposition of the CsPbIBr₂ film. Further investigations manifest that the CsPbIBr₂ film with PMMA possesses larger grains, better crystallinity, and fewer traps than the one without any modification. Moreover, it holds the nearly eliminated halide phase segregation. Therefore, the carbon-based, all-inorganic CsPbIBr₂ perovskite solar cell exhibits the much suppressed photocurrent hysteresis, coupled with an outstanding efficiency of 9.21% and a high photovoltage of 1.307 V.

Low photoactive phase temperature all-inorganic, tin-lead mixed perovskite solar cell

CsPbI₃ films have recently attracted significant attention as efficient absorbers for thermally stable photovoltaic devices. However, their large bandgap and photoactive black phase formation at high temperature impede their use for practical applications. Using the concept of lattice contraction, we demonstrate a low bandgap (≤1.44 eV) cesium-based inorganic perovskite CsPb_xSn_1−xI₃ that can be solution processed at low temperature for photovoltaic devices. The results from systematic measurements imply that the partial substitution of lead (Pb) with tin (Sn) results in crystal lattice contraction, which is essential for realizing photoactive phase formation at l00 °C and stabilizing photoactive phase at room temperature. These findings demonstrate the potential of using cesium-based inorganic perovskite as viable alternatives to MA- or FA-based perovskite photovoltaic materials.

In Cs-based all inorganic perovskite solar cells based, doping Sn can cause lattice shrinkage, which reduces annealing temperature of forming photoactive phase.

Luminescence modulation, near white light emission, selective luminescence sensing, and anticounterfeiting via a series of Ln-MOFs with a π-conjugated and uncoordinated lewis basic triazolyl ligand

A series of Ln-MOFs with π-conjugated and uncoordinated lewis basic triazolyl ligand have luminescence modulation, near white light emission, selective luminescence sensing, and anticounterfeiting.

Rapid hybrid perovskite film crystallization from solution

The use of a solution process to grow perovskite thin films allows to extend the material processability. It is known that the physicochemical properties of the perovskite material can be tuned by altering the solution precursors as well as by controlling the crystal growth of the film. This advancement necessarily implies the need for an understanding of the kinetic phenomena for the thin-film formation. Therefore, in this work we review the state of the art of perovskite hybrid crystal growth, starting from a comprehensive theoretical description towards broad experimental investigations. One part of the study focuses on rapid thermal annealing as a tool to control nucleation and crystal growth. We deduce that controlling crystal growth with high-precision photonic sintering simplifies the experimental framework required to understand perovskite crystallization. These types of synthesis methods open a new empirical parameter space. All this knowledge serves to improve the perovskite synthesis and the thin films' quality, which will result in higher device performances.

Emerging Light-Emitting Materials for Photonic Integration

The arrival of the information explosion era is urging the development of large-bandwidth high-data-rate optical interconnection technology. Up to now, the biggest stumbling block in optical interconnections has been the lack of efficient light sources despite significant progress that has been made in germanium-on-silicon (Ge-on-Si) and III-V-on-silicon (III-V-on-Si) lasers. 2D materials and metal halide perovskites have attracted much attention in recent years, and exhibit distinctive advantages in the application of on-chip light emitters. Herein, this Progress Report reviews the recent progress made in light-emitting materials with a focus on new materials, i.e., 2D materials and metal halide perovskites. The report briefly introduces the current status of Ge-on-Si and III-V-on-Si lasers and discusses the advances of 2D and perovskite light-emitting materials for photonic integration, including their optical properties, preparation methods, as well as the light sources based on these materials. Finally, challenges and perspectives of these emerging materials on the way to the efficient light sources are discussed.

Phonon, thermal, and thermo-optical properties of halide perovskites

Metal halide perovskites are semiconductors with many fascinating characteristics and their widespread use in optoelectronic devices has been expected. High-quality thin films and single crystals can be fabricated by simple chemical solution processes and their fundamental electrical, optical, and thermal properties can be changed significantly by compositional substitution, in particular halogen ions. In this perspective, we provide an overview of phonon and thermal properties of metal halide perovskites, which play a decisive role in determining device performance. After a brief introduction to fundamental material properties, longitudinal-optical phonons and unusual thermal properties of metal halide perovskites are discussed. Remarkably, they possess very low thermal conductivities and very large thermal expansion coefficients despite their crystalline nature. In line with these discussions, we present optical properties governed by the strong electron-phonon interactions and the unusual thermal properties. By showing their unique thermo-optic responses and novel application examples, we highlight some aspects of the unusual thermal properties.

An Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cell with Suppressed Defects by Employing Dithizone as a Lead Indicator

The defects in perovskite films are one of the most non-negligible factors that can attenuate the performances of perovskite solar cell. This work fabricates defect-reduced perovskite film by using the lead indicator (dithizone) as an additive of perovskite functional layer. The dithizone can retard the crystallization rate of perovskite films, passivate the defects, and enhance the structure stability of perovskite by coordinating with lead atoms. As a result, the device doped with dithizone yields outstanding power conversion efficiency and stability.

Crown Ether Modulation Enables over 23% Efficient Formamidinium-Based Perovskite Solar Cells

The use of molecular modulators to reduce the defect density at the surface and grain boundaries of perovskite materials has been demonstrated to be an effective approach to enhance the photovoltaic performance and device stability of perovskite solar cells. Herein, we employ crown ethers to modulate perovskite films, affording passivation of undercoordinated surface defects. This interaction has been elucidated by solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance and density functional theory calculations. The crown ether hosts induce the formation of host-guest complexes on the surface of the perovskite films, which reduces the concentration of surface electronic defects and suppresses nonradiative recombination by 40%, while minimizing moisture permeation. As a result, we achieved substantially improved photovoltaic performance with power conversion efficiencies exceeding 23%, accompanied by enhanced stability under ambient and operational conditions. This work opens a new avenue to improve the performance and stability of perovskite-based optoelectronic devices through supramolecular chemistry.

Methylphosphonium Tin Bromide: A 3D Perovskite Molecular Ferroelectric Semiconductor

3D ABX₃ organic-inorganic halide perovskite (OIHP) semiconductors like [CH₃ NH₃ ]PbI₃ have received great attention because of their various properties for wide applications. However, although a number of low-dimensional lead-based OIHP ferroelectric semiconductors have been documented, obtaining 3D ABX₃ OIHP ferroelectric semiconductors is challenging. Herein, an A-site cation [CH₃ PH₃ ]⁺ (methylphosphonium, MP) is employed to successfully obtain a lead-free 3D ABX₃ OIHP ferroelectric semiconductor MPSnBr₃ , which shows clear above-room-temperature ferroelectricity and a direct bandgap of 2.62 eV. It is emphasized that MPSnBr₃ is a multiaxial molecular ferroelectric with the number of ferroelectric polar axes being as many as 12, which is far more than those of the other OIHP ferroelectric semiconductors and even the classical inorganic perovskite ferroelectric semiconductors BiFeO₃ (4 polar axes) and BaTiO₃ (3 polar axes). MPSnBr₃ is the first MP-based 3D ABX₃ OIHP ferroelectric semiconductor. This finding throws light on the exploration of other excellent 3D ABX₃ OIHP ferroelectric semiconductors with great application prospects.

Organic Ligands Armored ZnO Enhances Efficiency and Stability of CsPbI2Br Perovskite Solar Cells

Inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have witnessed great progress in recent years due to their superior thermal stability. As a representative, CsPbI2Br is attracting considerable attention as it can balance the high efficiency of CsPbI3 and the stability of CsPbBr3. However, most research employs doped charge transport materials or applies bilayer transport layers to obtain decent performance, which vastly complicates the fabrication process and scarcely satisfies the commercial production requirement. In this work, all-layer-doping-free inorganic CsPbI2Br PSCs using organic ligands armored ZnO as the electron transport materials achieve an encouraging performance of 16.84%, which is one of the highest efficiencies among published works. Meanwhile, both the ZnO-based CsPbI2Br film and device show superior photostability under continuous white light-emitting diode illumination and improved thermal stability under 85 °C. The remarkable enhanced performance arises from the favorable organic ligands (acetate ions) residue in the ZnO film, which not only can conduce to maintain high crystallinity of perovskite, but also passivate traps at the interface through cesium/acetate interactions, thus suppressing the photo- and thermal- induced perovskite degradation.