Perovskite-Quantum Dot Light Absorption Layer for Solar Cells

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional photoelectric conversion elements, such as quantum dot and perovskite solar cells, face challenges in achieving both high durability and high photoelectric conversion efficiency, particularly in the near-infrared light region, due to surface oxidation of quantum dots and moisture sensitivity of perovskite compounds.

Innovation Solution

A light absorption layer comprising a perovskite compound with a band gap energy of 1.7 eV or more and 4.0 eV or less, combined with quantum dots having a band gap energy equal to or more than 0.2 eV and equal to or less than the perovskite compound's, enhances durability and photoelectric conversion efficiency by stabilizing the crystal structure and reducing carrier deactivation sites.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If quantum dots are used as light absorption material, then photoelectric conversion efficiency in near-infrared region is improved, but durability deteriorates due to surface oxidation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephotoelectric conversion efficiencyVSAvoiddurability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines quantum dots with perovskite compounds to form a composite light absorption layer. The perovskite compound acts as a protective matrix that prevents surface oxidation of quantum dots while maintaining their photoelectric conversion efficiency in the near-infrared region.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The perovskite compound serves as an intermediary protective layer between the quantum dots and the oxidizing atmosphere. It physically isolates the quantum dot surface from oxygen and moisture, preventing oxidation without interfering with light absorption and charge transfer processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If perovskite compound is used as light absorption material, then durability is improved, but photoelectric conversion efficiency deteriorates due to moisture decomposition

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidphotoelectric conversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a composite structure where perovskite compounds are combined with quantum dots. The quantum dots provide high photoelectric conversion efficiency while the perovskite matrix provides durability, and their combination yields synergistic effects that protect against moisture decomposition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The perovskite compound creates a protective environment around the quantum dots that is inert to moisture and oxygen. This protective matrix effectively isolates the sensitive quantum dot surfaces from harmful atmospheric components, preventing decomposition and oxidation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #39Inert atmosphere (Inert environment)

3Reliability

If halogen composition is replaced with bromine from iodine, then durability improves, but photoelectric conversion efficiency in near-infrared region deteriorates due to shortening of absorption wavelength

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidphotoelectric conversion efficiency in near-infrared region
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different materials to different functional requirements within the same light absorption layer. Bromine-based perovskite provides durability and structural stability, while embedded quantum dots provide near-infrared light absorption capability. Each component is optimized for its specific function within the composite structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

By combining bromine-based perovskite compounds with quantum dots, the patent achieves both durability from the perovskite matrix and near-infrared photoelectric conversion efficiency from the quantum dots, overcoming the limitations of using either material alone.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The combination significantly improves the durability and photoelectric conversion efficiency of the photoelectric conversion element, particularly in the near-infrared light region, by suppressing hydrolysis and oxidation reactions, leading to a more stable and efficient solar cell performance.

Implementation Method 1

A photoelectric conversion element that converts light energy into electric energy

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

it is known that the band gap energy increases (shortening of the absorption wavelength) as the particle size of quantum dots decreases

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectQuantum size effect:

Implementation Method 3

since the perovskite compound is decomposed by moisture in the atmosphere

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydrolysis: Hydrolysis

Implementation Method 4

since quantum dots are easily surface-oxidized in the atmosphere, the photoelectric conversion efficiency decreases with the lapse of time

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOxidation: Oxidation

Data Source

PatentUS11133428B2Light absorption layer, dispersion, photoelectric conversion element, solar cell, and method for manufacturing light absorption layer
Publication Date: 2021.09.28 KAO CORP
  • US11133428B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention pertains to a light absorption layer for forming a solar cell and a photoelectric conversion element having excellent durability and photoelectric conversion efficiency in the near infrared region, and a solar cell and a photoelectric conversion element having the light absorption layer. This light absorption layer contains a perovskite compound having a band gap energy of 1.7-4.0 eV, and a quantum dot having a band gap energy equal to or higher than 0.2 eV and equal to or lower than the band gap energy of the perovskite compound.