Chapter Twelve - Sustainable solution-processed solar cells based on environmentally friendly nanocrystals
S. Aina, N.C. Cates, M.P. Lobera, M. Bernechea “Sustainable solution-processed solar cells based on environment friendly nanocrystals” in Photovoltaics Beyond Silicon, Ed: Elsevier. ISBN: 9780323901888. June 2024, 437-477
Compared to other photovoltaic materials, nanomaterials show unique features due to their novel size- and shape-dependent properties such as bandgap tuning, multiple exciton generation, and modulation of n- or p-type behavior by doping or by modifying the ligands on the surface of the nanocrystals. The best-performing nanocrystal solar cells have been obtained using materials that contain lead. The presence of lead is problematic during fabrication, use, and disposal and can compromise the future commercialization of solar cells based on these materials. This might be less problematic in solar farms or bulk energy production systems, but it should be taken into consideration for other applications, such as wearables or indoor energy harvesting. In this chapter, we summarize some of the environment-friendly nanocrystals that have been developed so far and used in solution-processed solar. In particular, we will discuss nanocrystals based on antimony, bismuth, tin, or iron. We will summarize the maximum efficiency obtained, discuss their limitations, and offer possibilities for improvement.
Compared to other photovoltaic materials, nanomaterials show unique features due to their novel size- and shape-dependent properties such as bandgap tuning, multiple exciton generation, and modulation of n- or p-type behavior by doping or by modifying the ligands on the surface of the nanocrystals. The best-performing nanocrystal solar cells have been obtained using materials that contain lead. The presence of lead is problematic during fabrication, use, and disposal and can compromise the future commercialization of solar cells based on these materials. This might be less problematic in solar farms or bulk energy production systems, but it should be taken into consideration for other applications, such as wearables or indoor energy harvesting. In this chapter, we summarize some of the environment-friendly nanocrystals that have been developed so far and used in solution-processed solar. In particular, we will discuss nanocrystals based on antimony, bismuth, tin, or iron. We will summarize the maximum efficiency obtained, discuss their limitations, and offer possibilities for improvement.