Boosting Perovskite Solar Cell Efficiency Using Tin Based Compounds

Herein, we reviewed lead (Pb) free perovskite solar cells (PSCs) using Tin (Sn) compounds (FASnI3, CsSnI3) as alternative materials that are stable, cheap, and environmentally benign. These devices have an efficiency of 13 %, but when compared to the 25.7 % of Pb, it is still low. Oxidation of Sn2+ to Sn4+, surface defects, and low energy band gap alignment are concerns for the application Sn since they lower the device performance. It is worth mentioning that several solutions have been implemented to address the drawbacks, such as the use of encapsulation technology, the preparation method, and charge carrier materials. In this regard, encapsulation technology is applied to reduce aerial oxidation, which results in high stability. Furthermore, the charge carrier materials play a crucial role in energy band alignment, reduction in hole and electron recombination, and improvement of the contact between the interfacial surfaces. In brief, this review summarizes the Sn-based perovskites solar cells and how their efficiency can be modified based on the preparation method, use of either the solvent or the anti-solvent, charge transport materials, and encapsulation technology.