Optimizing Quantum Dots Integration for Enhanced Charge Dynamics In Carbon Perovskite Solar Cells

Fatou Diaw Ndiaye, Gilles De Moor, Lara Perrin, Stéphanie Narbey, Maria Bernechea, Lionel Flandin, Emilie Planes. Solar RRL, 2025, 9, e2500295

Metal halide perovskites have reshaped the photovoltaic (PV) research, but their commercialization is hindered by limited stability and a spectral response confined to the visible range. This study explores the integration of CsPbBr3 quantum dots (QDs) with MAPbI3-base perovskites as a strategy to convert ultraviolet light into visible light, thus enhancing both power conversion efficiency (PCE) and operational stability. Two types of QDs—one synthesized at room temperature with short-chain ligands, the other commercially produced via hot injection with long-chain ligands—are compared to assess the influence of synthesis route and surface chemistry on device performance. Heterojunction solar cells are fabricated by drop-casting in ambient conditions, using a combination of QDs, MAPbI3 and the AVAI additive. Various integration methods (blending into the perovskite matrix, sequential deposition, and surface application) are investigated. Devices incorporating QDs show a PCE improvement of up to 11.8%, reaching 10.4% compared to 9.3% for the reference. Thanks to advanced characterization techniques, these results offer valuable insights into how the properties of quantum dots influence charge generation mechanisms, paving the way for more robust and scalable carbon-based perovskite solar cell technologies.