Interplay, stability and charge transfer dynamics at 2D transition metal dichalcogenide interfaces for solar cells

Clean energy is one of the pillars enabling a sustainable future.

Solar cells with high efficiency, sourced from abundant materials, fabricated using scalable processes are meant to achieve that.

This project proposes the use of two-dimensional materials as charge transport layers together with perovskite nanocrystal absorbers.

The charge dynamics in the interfaces between these will be investigated using time-resolved spectroscopies studying both the charge transfer to the transport layer, a process in the femto- and attosecond regime, and the charge recombination, in the nanosecond regime. Understanding these processes is instrumental in the design of future devices.

Perovskite nanocrystal films are fabricated using of an in-vacuum electrospray deposition technique, developed at the host institution.

The project will push towards fabrication of the full device with this method and propose a scheme for deposition of 2D materials using the same technique. This give excellent control of the interface while, simultaneously, providing a scalable industry ready technique.

I will combine the knowledge gathered on the interfacial dynamics and the new processing routes during the stay abroad, and on returning to Sweden combine this in a proof-of-concept device and characterize it.

The successful implementation of the project will increase the fundamental knowledge of interfacial dynamics for photovoltaics and provide an industrial compatible fabrication route with excellent control.