Numerical simulation of a highly efficient perovskite solar cell based on FeSi₂ photoactive layer

Abstract

The primary aim of this work is to investigate the use iron di‐silicide (FeSi2) as a photoactive layer in order to achieve superior performance in the solar cell architecture—ITO/TiO2/FeSi2/CuSCN/Ni. The optimum thickness of the absorber layer was found to be 1000 nm, which gave optimal properties of the proposed cell—a short‐circuit current density (Jsc) of 51.41 mAm−2, an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.93 V, a fill factor (FF) of 77.99%, and power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 37.17%. The introduction of an ultrathin interfacial layer between the electron transport layer (ETL), the perovskite interface, and the hole transport layer (HTL) enhanced the electrical output of the proposed solar cell. The Jsc increased to 51.86 mAcm−2, Voc rose to 0.97 V, while FF and PCE increased to 82.86% and 41.84%, respectively. Accordingly, the proposed cell architecture is promising and can be introduced into the manufacturing workflow for commercial applications. Moreover, because of its exceptional photon absorption capabilities, FeSi2 is a potentially excellent photoactive material for solar cell fabrication. The detailed findings of this study have therefore indicated that high‐performance FeSi2‐based solar can be achieved in future.

Numerical simulation of a novel high performance solid‐state dye‐sensitised solar cell based on N719 dye

“…In this model cell structure, both shunt resistance (Rsh) and series resistance (Rs) significantly influence the device's operational performance [31]. Rs impedes current flow through the cell resulting from resistance encountered as current traverses different layers and interfaces within the device.…”

“…A band alignment diagram illustrates the bulk band structures of the materials and their alignment after contact, indicating the type of alignment [94]. For instance, in a Type I alignment, the conduction band (CB) minimum of one material aligns with or is lower than the valence band (VB) maximum of the other material, thus facilitating efficient electron flow from higher to lower energy levels [15,31]. Basically, the band offset can be either cliff-like (where absorber CB is above the one of either ETL or HTL) or spike-like (where the absorber CB is lower than that of the ETL or HTL) conformation, however in this device none was exhibited [16,95].…”

“…Analysing steady-state performance lays the groundwork for understanding dynamic characteristics and long-term stability. Environmental factors such as humidity, shading, and incident angle must be considered to enhance simulation accuracy and real-world performance [11,31]. While optimising performance through simulation is important, commercial viability depends on cost-effectiveness, scalability, material availability, and supply chain considerations [31].…”

“…Environmental factors such as humidity, shading, and incident angle must be considered to enhance simulation accuracy and real-world performance [11,31]. While optimising performance through simulation is important, commercial viability depends on cost-effectiveness, scalability, material availability, and supply chain considerations [31]. Research should explore economic modelling, alternative materials, and pilot-scale fabrication to assess commercialisation prospects of device structures.…”