Realization of Perovskite Solar Cells in Ambient Air Environment

The reliance on non-renewable energy has worsened climate change on a global scale. Hence, renewable energy is a significant parameter in addressing greenhouse gases, and the rapid development of perovskite solar cells (PSC) renders them a promising candidate for this transition. Nonetheless, most PSC-related studies undertaken in a controlled environment lacked external influences. Given that the commercialization of PSCs depends on the device fabrication method, compatibility with controlled air conditions is necessary to ensure cost-effectiveness. This study developed a PSC using air processing conditions. The perovskite structure adapted in the study was FTO/TiO2-m/CH3NH3PbI3-xClx/Spiro-OMeTAD/Carbon. Considering the need to produce large-area devices for commercial purposes, the study also examined the impact of varying the device's active area on its photovoltaic performance. The optimisation process involving changing the heat treatment medium of the perovskite layer from the hotplate to the oven was also investigated. Consequently, the most optimum power conversion efficiency (PCE) achieved was 1.5% for an active area of 0.4 cm2 using an oven heat treatment. The perovskite layer's optical absorption and surface morphology were analyzed using an ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscope and an atomic force microscope (AFM). Overall, the outcome of this study provides valuable insights into PSCs produced in ambient environments.