08 Jun 10:00
by Junjie Zhou,
Jiaying Lv,
Liguo Tan,
Hang Li,
Boxin Jiao,
Minghao Li,
Yue Liu,
Chaofan Jiang,
Ruimao Hua,
Chenyi Yi
A chlorine-substituted aromatic polycyclic compound is introduced into perovskite solar cells to regulate perovskite crystallization, passivate various defects, and enhance hole transport at the HTL/perovskite interface. This approach achieved high efficiencies of 25.04% for 1 cm2 cells and 22.81% for 12 cm2 modules, with excellent stability (maintaining 80% of initial efficiency after 2500 h of MPP tracking under ISOS-L-1 standards).
Abstract
Film morphology and surface/interface defect density play a critical role in determining the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Here, a chlorine-substituted aromatic polycyclic derivative (BNCl) is reported, which shows strong interaction with both lead iodide and dimethyl sulfoxide, to regulate the crystallization of perovskite, along with effective passivation of grain boundaries and surface. In addition, the extruded BNCl molecule at the hole transport layer (HTL)/perovskite interface can facilitate the hole transport, leading to better charge transfer. As a result, certified power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 25.04% and 22.81% are achieved for PSCs and minimodules with aperture areas of 1 cm2 and 12 cm2 respectively. In addition, the device maintained 80% of its initial efficiency after 2500 h of maximum power point (MPP) tracking under ISOS-L-1 standard.
26 May 13:47
by Yujian Zheng,
Zhenye Zhan,
Nana Pang,
Yueheng Lu,
Ziang Lin,
Tingting Shi,
Ke Chen,
Dongxu Lin,
Yan Jiang,
Weiguang Xie
A gradient doping strategy based on vapor deposition is proposed, which effectively reduces the crystallization rate at the bottom layer, promotes uniform crystallization, and applies pre-compressive stress to the surface of the perovskite film, thereby effectively alleviating the residual stress and achieving a PCE of 23.0% for p-i-n PSCs with vapor-deposited perovskite.
Abstract
Vapor-deposited p-i-n perovskite solar cells (PSCs) present key advantages such as low cost, excellent stability, low-temperature fabrication, and compatibility with tandem architectures, positioning them as strong contenders for industrial-scale solar applications. However, their power conversion efficiency (PCE) remains lower than that of n-i-p architectures. Herein, a gradient doping strategy to alleviate the stress in vapor-deposited perovskite films is introduced. Gradient chloride doping in the perovskite precursor film effectively slows the crystallization rate at the bottom layer, facilitating uniform crystallization and mitigating residual strain. This method yielded high-quality perovskite films, achieving a PCE of 23.0% for p-i-n PSCs with vapor-deposited perovskite and 21.43% for entirely vapor-deposited PSCs. Additionally, the devices demonstrates outstanding stability, showing negligible performance degradation over 1600 h of nitrogen storage and maintaining 87.3% of their initial PCE after 500 h of maximum power point tracking under 1-sun equivalent illumination at 70% relative humidity. The gradient doping strategy provides valuable insights for advancing large-area and perovskite-textured silicon tandem solar cells.
17 May 08:14
by Huaiman Cao, Tianshu Li, Liangyu Zhao, Yue Qiang, Xufan Zheng, Shouye Dai, Yulong Chen, Yong Zhu, Liang Zhao, Rui Cai, Zhiguang Sun, Fei Li, Yingguo Yang, Lijun Zhang, Hin-Lap Yip, and Ze Yu
ACS Energy Letters
DOI: 10.1021/acsenergylett.5c00471
17 May 08:11
by Mohammad Saeed Shadabroo, Nurlan Tokmoldin, Atul Shukla, Acacia Patterson, Tanner M. Melody, Obaid Alqahtani, Brian A. Collins, Dieter Neher, and Safa Shoaee
ACS Energy Letters
DOI: 10.1021/acsenergylett.5c00384
17 May 08:08
by Yan Zhu,
Xinyi Liu,
Xinyuan Sui,
Guocan Chen,
Qing Li,
Haonan Wang,
Haiyang Yuan,
Shuang Yang,
Yu Hou
In this work, an intermediate-phase homogenization approach is presented to regulate the multi-phase evolution during film formation by using TR-2-BA additive. The controlled formation dynamics enhance film homogeneity and crystallinity, leading to a significant decrease in defect density. The best-performing cell delivers a PCE and an FF of 25.24% and 84.73%, respectively.
Abstract
Perovskite solar cells, known for high efficiency, low-cost production, and excellent optoelectronics, have drawn significant interest in the photovoltaic research community. However, the fabrication of these devices faces challenges of environmental sensitivity and variability during the manufacturing processes, leading to unsatisfied product yield. Herein, an intermediate-phase homogenization approach is presented to regulate the multi-phase evolution during film formation by using tris(2-benzimidazolylmethyl)amine (TR-2-BA) additive. It is shown that the intermolecular interaction of TR-2-BA to solvent molecules effectively inhibits the formation of diverse solvated intermediates, like PbI2·Dimethyl sulfoxide (PbI2·DMSO) and δ phase, and thereby results in homogenizing the (Formamidinium)2·Pb3I8·2DMSO ((FA)2·Pb3I8·2DMSO) intermediate phase, which enhances the consistency of nucleation and growth behaviors. The controlled formation dynamics improve the film uniformity and crystallinity, along with a notable reduction in defect density. Consequently, devices fabricated using TR-2-BA achieve a fill factor (FF) of up to 84.73% and a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.24%. Statistical results from 120 devices prepared across different batches and seasons present that the strategy decreases the standard deviation of device efficiency from 0.74% to 0.38%. This work provides a novel approach for the reproducible fabrication of high-quality perovskite solar cells under varying conditions.
17 May 07:58
by Yehui Wen,
Tianchi Zhang,
Xingtao Wang,
Weihua Ning,
Yong Wang,
Deren Yang
Surface defects and unstable organic components in FA-based perovskites limit their efficiency and operational stability. In this work, a pyrazine-based passivation molecule is designed, and its electronic properties and steric configuration through methylation, thereby improving binding affinity and hydrogen bonding to achieve more stable FA-based perovskites.
Abstract
Pure iodide FA-based perovskites are one of the most promising light-absorbing materials for photovoltaics (PVs). However, high-density surface defects and unstable organic components within the FA-based perovskites not only reduce efficiency but also compromise operational stability. Herein, a rational molecular design strategy is reported to optimize the electronic structure and steric hindrance of pyrazine-based passivated molecules, enabling stable FA-based perovskite PVs. Both theoretical and experimental results reveal that pyrazine can effectively passivate positive charge defects, though its efficacy is limited by low electron cloud density and insufficient steric hindrance. The introduction of methyl groups in the pyrazine ring can effectively fine-tune the electronic structure and spatial properties of the passivated molecules. Full substitution of the hydrogen atoms on pyrazine with trimethyl groups achieves an optimal balance between electronic modulation and steric effects. The optimized pyrazine-based passivated molecule exhibits significantly improved defects passivation effect by enhancing binding affinity between the pyrazine ring and the perovskite, while simultaneously stabilizing FA+ cation through strengthening hydrogen bonding. Finally, the optimized FA-based device demonstrates an efficiency of 25.93%, and the unencapsulated devices retain 94% of their initial efficiency after 1000 h maximum power point tests in the nitrogen atmosphere at 25 °C.
17 May 07:57
by Lea Zimmermann,
Dorothee Menzel,
Richard Gundermann,
Maxim Simmonds,
Florian Scheler,
Thomas Gries,
Edgar Nandayapa,
Andres Felipe Castro Mendez,
Florian Mathies,
Aleksandra Miaskiewicz,
Emil J. W. List‐Kratochvil,
Philippe Holzhey,
Artem Musiienko,
Felix Lang,
Lars Korte,
Eike Köhnen,
Steve Albrecht
Air exposure of the C60 electron-transport layer (ETL) in p-i-n perovskite solar cells causes rapid O2 intercalation, forming deep trap states and altering charge carrier balance at the perovskite/ETL interface, thereby increasing non-radiative recombination. This work highlights the importance of O2 management during device fabrication and characterization, and additionally presents a simple method to assess the barrier quality of SnOx.
Abstract
C60 is the prevalent electron-transport layer (ETL) in high-efficiency p-i-n perovskite single-junction and multi-junction solar cells. Here, it is demonstrated that the exposure of the C60 ETL to ambient O2 results in significantly increased non-radiative recombination, influencing results from commonly applied characterization techniques such as steady-state and transient photoluminescence (PL), transient surface photovoltage, as well as current density-voltage measurements. Based on PL and He-I UV photoemission spectroscopy measurements and supported by density functional theory calculations and drift-diffusion simulations, it is proposed that O2 rapidly intercalates into the C60 ETL, causing the formation of deep trap states and an altered charge carrier balance at the perovskite/C60 interface. The findings reveal that the effect is reversible but can mislead experimental interpretations if disregarded, emphasizing the importance of O2 management during device fabrication and characterization. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that this interaction enables simple PL measurements in air to serve as a novel sensing method for evaluating the barrier layer quality of the SnOx buffer layer atop C60. This study thereby not only highlights a critical deterioration mechanism in perovskite solar cells and provides a deeper understanding of the underlying interaction between the C60 ETL and O2 but also offers practical avenues for future selective contact optimizations.
17 May 07:40
by Guangyue Yang,
Yanfeng Yin,
Kaiwen Dong,
Bingqian Zhang,
Lina Zhu,
Likai Zheng,
Haiyuan Wang,
Mingyang Wei,
Wenming Tian,
Xiaoqing Jiang,
Shuping Pang,
Michael Grätzel,
Xin Guo
Benzenesulfonate monomers undergo in situ self-polymerization during the crystallization process of perovskite, providing more uniform passivation for perovskite defects than single molecules. The in situ formed polymer also facilitates the growth of large grain domains and the charge transport, offering an efficiency of 25.34% for small-area perovskite solar cells and 21.54% for mini-modules with an active area of 14.0 cm2.
Abstract
Realizing high-quality perovskite films through uniform defect passivation and crystallization control is pivotal to unlocking the potential of scalable applications. However, prevalent small-molecule additives are inherently susceptible to the crystallization dynamics of perovskites, resulting in non-uniform distribution within the crystalline film and impeding consistent passivation and precise crystallization control. While polymers offer improved uniformity, their poor solubility restricts practical applications. To overcome this limitation, an in situ self-polymerization strategy is employed, enabling homogeneous coordination between sulfonate-containing additives and undercoordinated lead cations. This approach enhances perovskite film quality, promotes larger crystalline grain domains, and facilitates more efficient charge transport across grain domain boundaries. As a result, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) achieve a remarkable power conversion efficiency of 25.34% in small-area devices and 21.54% in 14.0 cm2 mini-modules, accompanied by exceptional operational stability. These findings highlight in situ polymerization as an effective strategy for leveraging sulfonate additives to overcome distribution challenges, advancing the scalable fabrication of efficient and stable PSCs.
15 May 06:08
Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, 18,6618-6627
DOI: 10.1039/D5EE01110H, Paper
Open Access
Hui Li, Davide Regaldo, Chun-Sheng Jack Wu, Mirko Prato, Antonella Treglia, Heyong Wang, Wolfram Hempel, Michele Sessolo, Yang Zhou, Andrea Olivati, Annamaria Petrozza
Low-contact-loss and durable buried interface was engineering by a molecular hybridization strategy. The proton transfer from Me-4PACz to Histamine enables distinguished efficiency and operational stability of PSCs based on mix-halide perovskites.
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
15 May 06:08
Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, 18,5287-5297
DOI: 10.1039/D5EE00640F, Paper
Open Access
Jihoo Lim, Seungmin Lee, Hongjae Shim, Lei Wang, Hyeonah Cho, Jincheol Kim, Claudio Cazorla, Yong-Jin Kim, Hanul Min, Minwoo Lee, Xiaojing Hao, S. Ravi P. Silva, Jan Seidel, Dohyung Kim, Jun Hong Noh, Jae Sung Yun
Ferroelectric properties can be utilized for efficient charge carrier separation by spontaneous electric polarization.
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
23 Apr 12:08
by Min Li,
Yulin Xie,
Long Luo,
Ziwei Zheng,
Jing Guo,
Lifei He,
Xin Zheng,
Ranran Liu,
Yaoguang Rong,
Rui Guo,
Xiong Li,
Bitao Dong
The α-FAPbI3 perovskite, ideal for high-efficiency solar cells, suffers from impurity phases causing defects and instability. Using FAI/MASCN vapors repairs impurities into α-FAPbI3, enhancing charge transport and morphology. This achieves 26.05% efficiency, with large-area devices (24.52% for 1 cm2, 22.35% for 17.1 cm2). Cyclic repair retains 94.3% efficiency after two cycles, significantly boosting device durability.
Abstract
The photoactive α-phase of formamidinium lead iodide perovskite (α-FAPbI3) is regarded as one of the ideal materials for high-efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs) due to its superior optoelectronic properties. However, during the deposition of α-FAPbI3 perovskite films, the presence of impurity phases, such as PbI2 and δ-FAPbI3, can cause the formation of inherent defects, which leads to suboptimal charge transport and extraction properties, as well as inadequate long-term stability in the film's morphology and structure. To address these issues, an impurity phase repair strategy is employed using FAI/MASCN mixed vapors to convert the impurity phases into light-absorbing α-FAPbI3. Meanwhile, this recrystallization process also facilitates the recovery of its characteristic morphology, thereby improving efficiency and enhancing the durability of PSCs. This approach promotes the PSCs to obtain an efficiency of 26.05% (with a certified efficiency of 25.67%, and steady-state PCE of 25.41%). Additionally, this approach is suitable for the fabrication of large-area devices, obtaining a 1 cm2 device with a PCE of 24.52% and a mini-module (with an area of 17.1 cm2) with a PCE of 22.35%. Furthermore, it is found that this strategy enables cyclic repair of aged perovskite films, with the perovskite solar cells retaining ≈ 94.3% of their initial efficiency after two cycles of repair, significantly enhancing the lifetime of the perovskite solar cells.
23 Apr 10:26
by Yuqi Tang,
Dan Xiang,
Quan Li
A novel near-infrared II J-aggregate-based nanomedicine has been observed to target tumor tissue and achieve effective penetration and prolonged retention in tumor tissue using an in situ secondary self-assembly strategy. These nanomedicines induce tumor pyroptosis by generating type I reactive oxygen species (superoxide anions), facilitating robust NIR-II fluorescence imaging and activating tumor photoimmunotherapy.
Abstract
Pyroptosis, a programmed cell death mechanism that bypasses apoptosis resistance and triggers tumor-specific immune responses, has gained much attention as a promising approach to cancer therapy. Despite enhancing tumor accumulation and extending the circulation of small-molecule drugs, nanomedicines still face significant challenges, including poor tissue penetration, tumor resistance, and hypoxic microenvironments. To overcome these challenges, a novel near-infrared II (NIR-II) J-aggregate-based nanomedicine is designed, leveraging an in situ secondary self-assembly strategy to fabricate highly targeted nanoparticles (MSDP NPs). These nanomedicines trigger pyroptosis by generating type I reactive oxygen species, especially superoxide anions, while simultaneously activating photoimmunotherapy. In vivo studies demonstrate that MSDP NPs achieve efficient tumor penetration and prolong tumor retention, which is facilitated by the J-aggregate-driven formation of microscale spindle-shaped fibrillar bundles through in situ secondary self-assembly at the tumor site. This unique structural transformation enhances nanomedicine accumulation in tumor tissues, enabling robust NIR-II fluorescence imaging and improving therapeutic efficacy even in hypoxic tumor microenvironments. This study provides an innovative phototheranostic strategy that utilizes the in situ secondary self-assembly of NIR-II J-aggregates to induce tumor pyroptosis, offering a potential solution to the limitations of current nanomedicines in cancer therapy.
09 Apr 04:08
Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, 18,3828-3838
DOI: 10.1039/D5EE00073D, Paper
Wenwu Zhou, Yunhe Cai, Shuo Wan, Yi Li, Xiaoying Xiong, Fangcong Zhang, Huiting Fu, Qingdong Zheng
The combination of PEABr and 5ATT was employed for universal defect and interface management in perovskites, resulting in highly efficient and stable inverted perovskite solar cells across various A-site components and different bandgaps.
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
09 Apr 03:46
Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, 18,4130-4141
DOI: 10.1039/D5EE00149H, Paper
Zezhang Wang, Tianfei Xu, Nan Li, Zhen Chang, Jing Shan, Yong Wang, Minfang Wu, Fengwei Xiao, Shengzhong Liu, Wanchun Xiang
Acrylonitrile–methyl acrylate is added to the perovskite precursor to retard the crystallization of inorganic perovskites, yielding a record efficiency of 21.7% for inverted inorganic PSCs, together with substantially improved operational stability.
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
09 Apr 03:41
Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, 18,5264-5276
DOI: 10.1039/D4EE06203E, Paper
Open Access
Xuanjie Wang, Jintong Gao, Yipu Wang, Yayuan Liu, Xinyue Liu, Lenan Zhang
A high-efficiency and sustainable approach produces green hydrogen with natural sunlight and seawater as the sole inputs.
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
09 Apr 03:39
Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, 18,4470-4479
DOI: 10.1039/D4EE06155A, Paper
Jian Liu, Ruohan Wang, Longyu Li, Wenkai Zhao, Zhaochen Suo, Wendi Shi, Guankui Long, Zhaoyang Yao, Xiangjian Wan, Yongsheng Chen
An atom-level asymmetric molecular design strategy was proposed to develop and synthesize two asymmetric acceptors, CH-Bzq and CH-Bzq-Br. The PM6:CH-Bzq-Br-based binary device achieves an impressive efficiency of 19.42%.
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
17 Mar 10:03
by Ruijie Ma,
Bosen Zou,
Yulong Hai,
Yongmin Luo,
Zhenghui Luo,
Jiaying Wu,
He Yan,
Gang Li
Asymmetric small molecule acceptor with a methoxylated end group is produced here, whose oxygen vibration is found effective in suppressing triplet state formation, thereby minimizing non-radiative energy loss for 20% efficiency in nonhalogenated solvent cast binary organic solar cells.
Abstract
Boosting power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells (OSCs) has been restricted by its undesirably high energy loss, especially for those nonhalogenated solvent-processed ones. Here,a dichloro-methoxylated terminal group in an asymmetric small molecular acceptor design, which realizes a significantly reduced non-radiative energy loss (0.179 eV) compared to its symmetric counterpart (0.202 eV), is reported. Consequently, the device efficiency is improved by up to 20% for PM6:BTP-eC9-4ClO, without sacrificing the photon harvest or charge transport ability of the control system PM6:BTP-eC9. Further characterizations reveal the asymmetric acceptor BTP-eC9-4ClO's blend film demonstrates a suppressed triplet state formation, enabled by an enhanced electron delocalization. In addition, the asymmetric BTP-eC9-4ClO is found to be thermally stabler than BTP-eC9, and thus providing an improved device stability, whose T80 value reaches > 7800 h under 80 °C anneal in N2 via linear extrapolation. This work represents state-of-the-art device performance for nonhalogenated solvent-processed binary OSCs with certified results (19.45%).
17 Mar 10:03
by Yahui Li,
Zhenzhu Li,
Yanxin Han,
Runchen Lai,
Jingjing Yao,
Cunquan Li,
Ming Xia,
Hongzhi Zhou,
Xin Sheng,
Baini Li,
Yiling Zhang,
Tianyu Wang,
Xiaohuo Shi,
Jianwei Zhao,
Yunfan Guo,
Xiaoze Liu,
Aron Walsh,
Enzheng Shi
A dual oxidation suppression strategy is developed to suppress the Sn2+ oxidation in 2D tin perovskites, i.e. adopting an oxygen-free two-step growth to enhance the crystal quality and incorporating electron-donating biuret molecules to coordinate with Sn2+. As a result, nanolasers based on these tin perovskite flakes exhibited an ultralow lasing threshold of <1 µJ cm−2 and superior lasing stability.
Abstract
Low lasing threshold and long-term operational stability are essential in advancing cost-effective, efficient lead-free (tin) halide perovskite lasers. However, the rapid crystallization of tin perovskites and oxidation of Sn2+ lead to substantial amounts of lattice defects, detrimental to laser performance enhancement. Herein, a dual oxidation suppression strategy is developed to suppress the oxidation of Sn2+ 2D tin halide perovskites, i.e., adopting an oxygen-free two-step growth to enhance the crystal quality and incorporating electron-donating biuret molecules to coordinate with Sn2+ during the crystal growth, which led to the substantial reduction of lasing threshold to <1 µJ cm−
2 in (PEA)2MASn2I7. This represents the lowest value in lead-free perovskite nanolasers and approximately one order of magnitude lower than those previously reported for tin-based nanolasers. Investigations into the spontaneous photoluminescence (PL) and stimulated lasing emission revealed that 2D tin perovskites exhibited superior photostability and lasing stability compared to their lead counterparts. Specifically, the lasing intensity of (PEA)2MA2Sn3I10 constantly increased by >300% under optical pumping and the lasing threshold decreased by ≈17%, which is not observed in their lead counterparts. The findings highlight the prospect of 2D tin halide perovskites as lead-free gain materials and cavities for solution-processed nanolasers with low lasing thresholds and exceptional stability.
04 Mar 08:17
by Shuguang Cao,
Shizi Luo,
Tongjun Zheng,
Zhuoneng Bi,
Jiamei Mo,
Lavrenty G. Gutsev,
Nikita A. Emelianov,
Victoria V. Ozerova,
Nikita A. Slesarenko,
Gennady L. Gutsev,
Sergey M. Aldoshin,
Fangyuan Sun,
Yanqing Tian,
Bala R. Ramachandran,
Pavel A. Troshin,
Xueqing Xu
This work reports hybrid self-assembled molecules (SAMs) formed by co-depositing [4-(3,6-dimethyl-9H-carbazol-9-yl)butyl]phosphonic acid (Me-4PACz) and thiol molecules on NiO
x
, achieving an optimal efficiency of 25.40%. The island-like structure of the hybrid SAMs serves as atemplate for the formation of the perovskite bulk heterojunction composed of the interpenetrating networks of the MA-/FA-rich domains, enabling efficient charge generation and suppressed bimolecular recombination.
Abstract
Self-assembled molecules (SAMs) have been widely employed as hole transport layers (HTLs) in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the carbazole core of [4-(3,6-dimethyl-9H-carbazol-9-yl)butyl]phosphonic acid (Me-4PACz) is insufficiently effective for passivating defects at the “bottom” of perovskite films, and the weak anchoring ability of phosphate groups toward the NiO
x
substrate appears to promote the formation of dimers, trimers, and higher-order oligomers, resulting in molecular accumulation. Herein, a novel technique is proposed to combine Me-4PACz with different thiol molecules to modify the buried interface of PSCs. Molecular dynamics simulations and infrared scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (IR s-SNOM) results show that co-depositing Me-4PACz with thiol molecules forms hybrid SAMs that densely and uniformly cover the NiO
x
surface. The island-like structure of the hybrid SAMs serves as a template for forming the perovskite bulk heterojunction composed of interpenetrating networks of MA-rich and FA-rich domains, enabling efficient charge generation and suppressed bimolecular recombination. Particularly, (3-mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane (MPTMS) effectively prevents Me-4PACz aggregation by forming a multi-dentate anchor on the NiO
x
surface through hydrolytic condensation of ─OCH3 groups, while its ─SH groups passivate uncoordinated Pb2+ at the perovskite/HTL interface. Consequently, the resulting hybrid SAMs-modified PSC achieve a champion photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.4% and demonstrated better operational stability.
04 Mar 08:17
by Na Liu,
Shuyan Chen,
Xingyu Liu,
Cheng Zhu,
Fan Xu,
Tinglu Song,
Wanqing Cai,
Yuqun Jiang,
Xuan Zhang,
Roman B. Vasiliev,
Shuai Chang,
Shukui Li,
Qi Chen,
Guodan Wei
A fluorinated pyrrolidine compound strengthens the lattice bonds in formamidinium (FA)-based perovskites, mitigating phase segregation and device degradation. The resulting 1D/3D heterojunction further enhances phase stability and effectively blocks ion migration channels. Perovskite solar cells achieve enhanced efficiencies, reaching 25.39% (rigid) and 24.26% (flexible), and maintain 90% of their initial performance during maximum power point tracking for over 350 hours under continuous illumination.
Abstract
The unavoidable migration of organic cation within formamidinium (FA)-based mixed halide perovskite leads to severe phase segregation and device degradation. The intrinsic weak chemical bond between organic cation and [PbI6]4− octahedra can easily break during device operation, resulting in the formation of cation vacancies and undesirable structural transformation. In this work, a pyrrolidine compound is incorporated, with a strong electron-withdrawing fluorine substitution, which strengthened the lattice bond between organic cation and [PbI6]4− octahedra. Meanwhile, the 1D/3D heterojunction films are also achieved due to the chemical reaction between PbI2 and pyrrolidine, successfully constructing a new 1D perovskite such as PYFPbI3. The resultant hetero-perovskite films retained their photoactive-α phase even after eight days of ambient exposure, demonstrating superior phase stability without any post-encapsulation. More importantly, the ion-migration channels inside the perovskite lattice are effectively blocked by 1D/3D heterojunctions. The resultant rigid and flexible solar cells exhibited an enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) from the initial 24.48% to 25.39%, as well as 23.86% to 24.26%, respectively, which are among the highest records in 1D/3D-based works. Furthermore, the unencapsulated devices retained 90% of their initial PCE during maximum power point tracking for over 350 hours under continuous illuminations.
04 Mar 07:59
by Yali Chen,
Kun Wang,
Wei Chen,
Tianxiang Li,
Hao Tu,
Feng Yang,
Ziyong Kang,
Yu Tong,
Hongqiang Wang
A multifunctional Lewis base cyanoacetohydrazide (CAH) is introduced to synergistically regulate crystallization and phase distribution in 2D/3D tin perovskites through dual coordination with Sn2+ ions, effectively reducing defect density and low-dimensional phase formation while enhancing carrier transport. The optimized PSCs achieve a remarkable power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.06% with excellent stability, representing an important advancement in lead-free photovoltaics.
Abstract
Tin perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have garnered considerable attention as promising alternatives to lead PSCs due to their lower toxicity and outstanding optoelectronic properties. However, their efficiency and stability, particularly in 2D/3D tin PSCs, are usually hindered by high defect densities and inefficient carrier transport. In this study, a small-molecule Lewis base with multiple functional groups-cyanoacetohydrazide (CAH) is employed to mitigate defects and enhance charge transport in 2D/3D tin PSCs. It is revealed that the carbonyl, amine, and cyano groups in CAH form strong chemical bonds with Sn2+ ions, resulting in synergetic coordination effects. Moreover, the strong interaction between CAH and tin perovskite effectively regulates the crystallization process of perovskite film, resulting in a high-quality tin perovskite film with enhanced crystallinity, reduced defect density, and a modulated 2D/3D phase distribution. As a result, the optimized 2D/3D tin PSCs achieve a remarkable power conversion efficiency of 15.06%, marking one of the highest values for 2D/3D tin PSCs. Furthermore, the optimized devices exhibit outstanding stability, retaining 95% of their initial performance after 2000 h of storage in a nitrogen atmosphere.
04 Mar 06:34
by Xiaoying Hao,
Min Gao,
Ruiling Zhang,
Ying Tang,
Xueluer Mu,
Yongxian Zhao,
Yingxi Lu,
Xianfeng Zhou
A “SOCT-ISC in crystalline nanoaggregates” strategy is developed by integrating a cationic pyridine at the meso-position of an anionic heptamethine cyanine dye, forming zwitterionic crystalline nanoaggregates. This design optimizes stacking patterns to enhance PTT efficiency and promotes SOCT-ISC via an almost perpendicular geometry, boosting triplet state formation. As a result, it enables precise and effective imaging-guided PTT/PDT synergistic antitumor therapy.
Abstract
Developing nanophotosensitizer (nanoPS) for synergistic phototherapy by leveraging the aggregation of small-molecule dyes is compelling frontier in precision medicine, but challenges remain due to the limited understanding of the interactions between molecular structure, assembly behavior, and theranostic function. Here, the concept of “spin-orbit charge-transfer intersystem crossing (SOCT-ISC) in crystalline aggregates” is introduced, which significantly enhances photodynamic (PD) and photothermal (PT) properties of small-molecule-based nanoPS. Specifically, a cationic pyridine (Py) group is incorporated at the meso-position of a tricyanofuran (TCF)-containing anionic heptamethine cyanine (TCF-Cy7-TCF) dye to construct an orthogonal charge-transfer dyad (TCF-Cy7(Py)-TCF), boosting triplet state formation through SOCT-ISC mechanism to enhance the PD properties. Remarkably, the zwitterion moieties impart TCF-Cy7(Py)-TCF with high crystallinity even at ultralow concentrations, dictating its stacking behavior within aggregates and enhancing both PT and PD properties. The TCF-Cy7(Py)-TCF nanoaggregates exhibit superior singlet oxygen quantum yield (0.8% vs 0.2%) and photothermal conversion efficiency (55.06% vs 7.78%) compared to TCF-Cy7-TCF. Impressively, TCF-Cy7(Py)-TCF preferentially accumulates at tumor sites, yielding high signal-to-background ratios for tumor imaging in NIR-I and NIR-II windows, with minimal nonspecific binding. Finally, in vivo experiments confirm TCF-Cy7(Py)-TCF nanoaggregates function as nanoPS for synergistic phototherapy, offering a simple yet effective strategy to design single-component PS for clinical translation.
02 Mar 03:47
by Lorenzo Gatto, Isabella Poli, Daniele Meggiolaro, Federico Grandi, Giulia Folpini, Antonella Treglia, Eugenio Cinquanta, Annamaria Petrozza, Filippo De Angelis, and Caterina Vozzi
ACS Energy Letters
DOI: 10.1021/acsenergylett.4c02558
26 Feb 05:18
by Mingjin Dai,
Xuran Zhang,
Yunxia Hu,
Wenduo Chen,
Chongwu Wang,
Yu Luo,
Qi Jie Wang
A vertical Schottky photodiode based on black phosphorus with near-perfect absorption is designed for mid-infrared photodetection. Both electrical and optical designs are involved to support photogenerated carrier collection and light absorption enhancement, respectively. The ultrahigh external quantum efficiency (42%) is achieved for photodetector operating in mid-infrared region under room temperature.
Abstract
Infrared (IR) photodetectors play a crucial role in various fields such as medical imaging, communication, and surveillance. However, the majority of commercial infrared detectors require low-temperature operation, which limits their broader applications. Recently, room temperature infrared photodetectors based on 2D materials have shown potential for expanding their use, yet their performance is often constrained by low quantum efficiency. In this study, a vertical black phosphorus (BP) Schottky photodiode designed for room temperature mid-IR photodetection with enhanced quantum efficiency is reported. By optimizing both optical and electrical aspects of the design, near-perfect absorption is achieved through a resonant cavity and improve carrier separation and collection efficiency via Schottky and ohmic contacts, respectively. The photodetector demonstrates high sensitivity, with a specific detectivity of 2.2 × 109 cm Hz1/2 W−1, and a maximal external quantum efficiency of 42% at 3.6 µm. Additionally, due to BP's intrinsic anisotropic absorption, the device exhibits an exceptionally high polarization sensitivity with a polarization ratio of 10 and a polarization angle sensitivity of 0.01 A W−1 degree−1 is achieved at 3.8 µm. This device design provides a promising approach for high-performance, room-temperature infrared photodetectors, combining low power consumption with polarization imaging capabilities.
25 Feb 13:36
by Xiaopeng Wang, Mengting Ouyang, Huaiqian Wang, and Xiangying Sun
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c22144
25 Feb 10:53
by Jiwoo Yeop, Jae Hoon Son, Jin Uk Lee, Jina Roe, Jaehyeong Kim, Dongchan Lee, Nayoung Kim, Shinuk Cho, Jae Sung Lee, Han Young Woo, and Jin Young Kim
ACS Energy Letters
DOI: 10.1021/acsenergylett.5c00170
25 Feb 07:54
by Xinyuan Li, Bohan Wu, Xurui Zhang, Akang Chen, Jiale Wang, Honglei Wang, Artur Ciesielski, Jia Liu, and Jiatao Zhang
ACS Energy Letters
DOI: 10.1021/acsenergylett.5c00090
25 Feb 07:53
Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, 18,3060-3084
DOI: 10.1039/D4EE06027J, Review Article
Qin Zhang, Xi Chen, Eng Liang Lim, Lei Shi, Zhanhua Wei
This review presents the latest advancements and comprehensive insights into the optimization of wide-bandgap perovskites, narrow-bandgap perovskites, and interconnecting layers for all-perovskite two-terminal tandem solar cells.
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
25 Feb 07:46
Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, 18,3288-3295
DOI: 10.1039/D5EE00233H, Paper
Dawei Gao, Yujie Yang, Xinyang Zhou, Yuandong Sun, Weiqiang Miao, Dan Liu, Wei Li, Tao Wang
Strong chemical interaction between CsPbI2Br PQDs and organic semiconductors is revealed, leading to enhanced performance in both organic photovoltaics and organic photodetectors.
The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
13 Feb 04:22
by Feihu Zhang,
Runda Guo,
Haibo Zeng,
Lei Wang
This article presents an overview of the research and development of SOMs in the field of PeLEDs. It focuses on summarizing the specific applications and mechanisms of SOMs in PeLEDs, including the regulation of perovskite dimensions, improvement of perovskite crystallization and film morphology, passivation of perovskite defects, suppression of ion migration, and balancing of carrier injection.
Abstract
Perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) has emerged as one of the most promising technologies for the next generation of lighting and high-definition display applications due to their exceptional color purity, tunable color emission, and low material costs. In the past eleven years, PeLEDs have made remarkable progress as researchers have come up with many innovative approaches. Among them, additive engineering based on small organic molecules (SOMs) has been demonstrated as one of the most effective strategies to enhance the external quantum efficiency (EQE) and stability of PeLEDs. Notably, the champion EQEs for red, green, and blue devices cannot be realized without the participation of SOMs. Here, this paper first reviews the development of PeLEDs, followed by a focused discussion on the specific application and mechanism of SOMs in PeLEDs. Lastly, it analyzes the challenges and provides an outlook on their future development.
