Three-Layered Breakthrough in Solar Tech

A cutting-edge collaboration between the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has resulted in a remarkable leap in perovskite solar cell performance, thanks to an innovative laminated interface design inspired by composite materials like laminates. The lead corresponding author Prof. Zhou Yuanyuan (right) and co-first author Dr. Guo Pengfei (left) are showing a perovskite solar cell prototype made for a proof-of-concept demonstration of the novel laminate-structured interface. Credit: HKUST The research, led by Prof. Zhou Yuanyuan of HKUST’s Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, introduces a “three-ply” microstructure to the interface of inverted perovskite solar cells. This structure includes: • A molecular passivation layer • A fullerene derivative layer • A 2D perovskite layer This layered approach significantly reduces interface defects, enhances energy level alignment, and dramatically improves the device's photoelectric conversion efficiency. The improved architecture also shows greater resistance to humidity and prolonged light exposure, addressing key limitations in perovskite solar stability.