Tin Oxide Electron-Selective Layers for Efficient, Stable, and Scalable Perovskite Solar Cells

Abstract

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have become a promising photovoltaic (PV) technology, where the evolution of the electron-selective layers (ESLs), an integral part of any PV device, has played a distinctive role to their progress. To date, the mesoporous titanium dioxide (TiO₂ )/compact TiO₂ stack has been among the most used ESLs in state-of-the-art PSCs. However, this material requires high-temperature sintering and may induce hysteresis under operational conditions, raising concerns about its use toward commercialization. Recently, tin oxide (SnO₂ ) has emerged as an attractive alternative ESL, thanks to its wide bandgap, high optical transmission, high carrier mobility, suitable band alignment with perovskites, and decent chemical stability. Additionally, its low-temperature processability enables compatibility with temperature-sensitive substrates, and thus flexible devices and tandem solar cells. Here, the notable developments of SnO₂ as a perovskite-relevant ESL are reviewed with emphasis placed on the various fabrication methods and interfacial passivation routes toward champion solar cells with high stability. Further, a techno-economic analysis of SnO₂ materials for large-scale deployment, together with a processing-toxicology assessment, is presented. Finally, a perspective on how SnO₂ materials can be instrumental in successful large-scale module and perovskite-based tandem solar cell manufacturing is provided.

Keywords: SnO 2; electron-selective layers; low-temperature processing; perovskite solar cells; tin oxide.