No abstract

The p-i-n structure for perovskite solar cells has recently shown significant advantages in minimal hysteresis effects, and scalable manufacturing potential using low-temperature solution processing. However, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the perovskite p-i-n structure remains low mainly due to limitations using a flat electron transport layer (ETL). In this work, we demonstrate a new approach using spray coating to fabricate the [6,6]-phenyl-C(61)-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) ETL. By creating a rough surface, we effectively improve the light trapping properties inside the PCBM ETL. We reveal that the spray coated PCBM can form a cross-linked network, which may facilitate better charge transport and enhance extraction efficiency. By improving the contact between the perovskite film and the PCBM ETL, a reduction in the trap states is observed resulting in a PCE increase from 13% to >17%.

transformers [2] and load bearing applications. [3] In the last few decades, the study of nanomaterials has become a central focus in nanoscience and nanotechnology. [4] In fact, many studies have shown that with reduction in size, nanomaterials display novel electrical, mechanical, chemical and optical properties, which are largely believed to be the result of surface and quantum confinement effects. [4,5] Remarkably, this trend has found traction in the metallic glass field where metallic glasses nanostructures (MGNs) demonstrate an important role in many applications such as light harvesting, [6] photovoltaic, [7] biomedical, [8] magneto-optical, [9] organic synthesis, [10] lithium-ion batteries [11] and electrocatalysis. [12] Recently, MGNs are receiving increased attention due to their distinguished performance, such as high activity and long term stability in electrocatalytic reactions. [12,13] Although several review papers have already covered the topic of nanopatterning of bulk metallic glasses (BMGs), [14][15][16] the correlation between recent synthetic methods and electrocatalytic applications for MGNs has not been thoroughly addressed. Moreover, there is currently no review that unites MGNs synthesized from different approaches (top-down and bottom-up) with conventional electrochemical reactions. Therefore, in this review our mission is to: 1) present a focused perspective on the latest fabrication techniques of MGNs toward the pursuit of novel electrocatalysts and electrodes; 2) highlight recent advances in computational screening and predictions that could be applied toward new metallic glass electrocatalyst discovery; and 3) report distinct advancements in electrocatalytic applications related to MGNs by creating a comprehensive discussion for commonly employed kinetic parameters and their connection with the unique material structure. Finally, as the first progress report on the metallic glass based electrocatalysts, we will also highlight some of the challenges that need to be addressed toward future progress in this field.BMGs are those metallic glasses (MGs) that can be made in 'bulk' scale with good glass forming abilities, [17] representing a versatile platform for many applications. To date, a wide range of BMG-forming alloys have been developed, including Zr-, [18] Fe-, [19] Cu-, [20] Ni-, [21] Ti-, [22] Mg-, [23] Pd-, [24] Au-, [25] and Pt-based compositions. [26] Moreover, the increased disorder brought by the higher degree of multinary systems is believed to contribute to improving the glass formation. [27] The evolution to multicomponent alloys of the most recent MG studies has also made them natural candidates for catalysis. The amorphous multinary Recent advances in metallic glass nanostructures (MGNs) are reported, covering a wide array of synthesis strategies, computational discovery, and design solutions that provide insight into distinct electrocatalytic applications. A brief introduction to the development and unique features of MGNs with an overview of top-down and bottom-up sy...