Defective TiO2 with high photoconductive gain for efficient and stable planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells

Nat Commun. 2016 Aug 18:7:12446. doi: 10.1038/ncomms12446.

Abstract

Formation of planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells exhibiting both high efficiency and stability under continuous operation remains a challenge. Here, we show this can be achieved by using a defective TiO2 thin film as the electron transport layer. TiO2 layers with native defects are deposited by electron beam evaporation in an oxygen-deficient environment. Deep-level hole traps are introduced in the TiO2 layers and contribute to a high photoconductive gain and reduced photocatalytic activity. The high photoconductivity of the TiO2 electron transport layer leads to improved efficiency for the fabricated planar devices. A maximum power conversion efficiency of 19.0% and an average PCE of 17.5% are achieved. In addition, the reduced photocatalytic activity of the TiO2 layer leads to enhanced long-term stability for the planar devices. Under continuous operation near the maximum power point, an efficiency of over 15.4% is demonstrated for 100 h.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't