Impact of Indium Doping in Lead-Free (CH 3 NH 3 ) 3 Bi 2– x In x I 9 Perovskite Photovoltaics for Indoor and Outdoor Light Harvesting

Journal article

Hybrid halide perovskites (HHPs) have revolutionized the field of solar cells due to their low cost, solution-processable synthesis, and exceptional device performance. Although lead (Pb)-based perovskites are currently the most efficient, their application in indoor photovoltaics and wearable electronics is limited by lead’s toxicity. This has intensified the search for Pb-free alternatives, particularly for use in portable electronic devices. In this study, we utilized a vapor-assisted solution process to systematically engineer the composition of bismuth-based perovskite-inspired materials (PIMs) through indium doping, forming homogeneous and pinhole-free (CH3NH3)3Bi2–x In x I9 (Bi–In) films. These bimetallic Bi–In perovskites exhibit enhanced properties, including high recombination resistance, reduced low-frequency capacitance, lower defect density, and minimal microstrain. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) shows significantly reduced ion migration in Bi–In compositions compared with pure bismuth-based counterparts. The optimized Bi–In-based solar cells achieved a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 2.5% under outdoor illumination and 5.9% under indoor lighting, showcasing their potential as promising lead-free alternatives for photovoltaic applications.

Authors: Kumar, R; Liu, H; Nabavi, SA; Anyebe, MS; Mahesh, S

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: American Chemical Society
• Journal: ACS Applied Electronic Materials
• Volume: 6
• Issue: 11
• Pages: 8360-8368
• Publication date: 2024-10-17
• Acceptance date: 2024-10-10
• DOI: 10.1021/acsaelm.4c01576
• EISSN: 2637-6113
• ISSN: 2637-6113
• Language: English
• Keywords: nontoxicity; environmentally friendly; portable electronics; solar cells; lead-free perovskites