Stable lead-free Cs4CuSb2Cl12 layered double perovskite solar cells yielding theoretical efficiency close to 30%

Abstract

Perovskite solar cells in the last decade have dominated the field of photovoltaics and optoelectronics. However, the organic-inorganic perovskite light absorbers suffer from long-term stability, durability, and toxicity. This article explores the lead-free and stable Cs4CuSb2Cl12 layered double perovskite light absorber with n-type SnO2 and p-type CuSCN transport layers. Using the SCAPS-1D software package, 224 solar cells are analyzed with varying thickness, defect, and doping density of the subsequent films. The optimized Cs4CuSb2Cl12 perovskite solar cells show PCE of 29.71% and 29.61% power conversion efficiency, respectively, with and without p-type CuSCN. For real-time analysis of the Cs4CuSb2Cl12 perovskite solar cells, the variation of PCE pertaining to the operating temperature is evaluated. The bulk defect density and the thickness of the Cs4CuSb2Cl12 light absorber are critical factors in achieving high power conversion efficiencies in Cs4CuSb2Cl12 perovskite solar cells with p-type CuSCN. For CuSCN free solar cells, the work function of the counter electrode determines the efficiency of the Cs4CuSb2Cl12 perovskite solar cells. © 2022 Elsevier B.V.