Design and Numerical Simulation of Perovskite Solar Cells

Abstract

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have emerged as a promising technology in the photovoltaic (PV) field due to their high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and low-cost fabrication. However, challenges related to stability and lead toxicity hinder their commercialization. This thesis explores the numerical modeling, optimization, and material synthesis for high-performance and environmentally friendly perovskite-based solar cells using the SCAPS-1D simulation tool. newlineThe first part of this work investigates lead-free perovskite solar cells, where CHand#8323;NHand#8323;SnIand#8323; is utilized as an absorber layer due to its favorable bandgap, high absorption coefficient, and non-toxic nature. Various device parameters, including absorber thickness, hole transport layers (HTLs), defect density, doping concentration, and back contacts, were optimized. The proposed device structure, FTO/TiOand#8322;/CHand#8323;NHand#8323;SnIand#8323;/CuSbSand#8322;/back contact, achieved a PCE of 29.74%. Additionally, the study examined mixed-halide perovskites (CHand#8323;NHand#8323;PbIand#8323;and#8331;and#8339;Cland#8339;) to enhance thermal stability and film quality, yielding an optimized PCE of 27.19%. To address stability concerns, the research focused on the mixed cation Rband#8320;.and#8320;and#8325;Csand#8320;.and#8321;FAand#8320;.and#8328;and#8325;PbIand#8323; perovskite, which exhibits improved optoelectronic properties and reduced non-radiative recombination. The optimized device, FTO/TiOand#8322;/RbCsFAPbIand#8323;/Cuand#8322;O/Au, achieved a PCE of 24.64%. Further, a dual-absorber perovskite solar cell using Csand#8324;CuSband#8322;Cland#8321;and#8322; and Laand#8322;NiMnOand#8326; was modelled to improve efficiency and stability. The optimized device reached a remarkable PCE of 31.75%, demonstrating the potential of double-absorber PSCs for next-generation solar technology. newlineThe study also explores perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells (TSCs) to overcome the efficiency limitations of single-junction devices. A 4T tandem configuration using CsPbIand#8323; as the top cell and crystalline silicon (c-Si) as the bottom cell was numerically investigated, achieving an impressive PCE of 35.06%. This highlights the significance of tandem architectures in enhancing PV performance.