Multi-Dimensional Imaging System for in operando Characterization of Printable Photovoltaic Materials
Abstract
This Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) application requests funding for a unique scanning photoelectrochemical microscopy system (photo-SECCM) for multidimensional, nanoscale and in operando imaging of printable (perovskite) photovoltaic materials at the University of Arizona (DEPSCoR-eligible). Printable halide perovskite materials haverecently shown unprecedented advancements in power conversion efficiencies in thin film solar cells and have the potential to be manufactured at low cost and at extremely large scale, on light weight portable platforms, with established processing methods. Full realization of these new energy conversion technologies promises to create a disruptive change in the way that electricalpower is generated in Navy/DoD-relevant applications. The lack of understanding of complex relationships between composition, structure, energetics and dynamics of charge collection at nanometer to micron length scales limits full implementation of perovskite solar cell technologies. Of utmost importance is to first increase understanding of these relationships under realistic operating conditions (in operando) and subsequently, understand how local instabilities and degradation of these active layers impact device-scaleenergy conversion efficiencies. This unique photo-SECCM system will augment the recently funded 3-year ONR program (ONR Active Grant #12973801) at the University of Arizona, which focuses on achieving nanometer-scale understanding and control of the stability of the interfaces between new semiconductor (perovskite) active layers and charge selective electrical contacts in emerging, DoD-relevant thin film solar cell platforms. This instrumentation helps to address a key long-term goal: enabling design guidelines for attainment of DoD-specified energy/area/cost/lifetime targets in next-generation energy conversion platforms. Data generated from photo-SECCM will directly connect nanoscale composition, structure, energetics and chargetransport/transfer dynamics, while in operation and far from equilibrium states.Acquiring nanoscale scanning spectroelectrochemical capabilities will have tremendous impact on Navy-relevant research and student training focused on printable photovoltaic materials at the University of Arizona. The technique will introduce new, in operando analysis of both chemical and electronic properties with direct correlation to local physical structure; for the first time, thesemeasurements will be conducted in the context of active charge transport, far from equilibrium, where energy generation actually occurs which most other characterization techniques cannot address. Most critically, acquisition and demonstration of this new form of electrochemical microscopy to in operando materials will provide characterization capabilities currently unique toONR and related DoD programs, which will be an effective characterization tool for a broad range of new opto-electronic materials. Central to the effort is student and postdoctoral multidisciplinary training in semiconductor physics, chemistries, and materials science. The unique nature of the proposed instrumentation offers an exciting training tool for early career researchers entering the field of semiconductor electrochemistry and perovskite solar cells.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 06, 2021
- Source ID
- N000142112311
Entities
People
- Erin L. Ratcliff
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Arizona