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  • Detailed-balance analysis of Yb 3+ :CsPb(Cl 1−x Br x ) 3 quantum-cutting layers for high-efficiency photovoltaics under real-world conditions
Title: Detailed-balance analysis of Yb 3+ :CsPb(Cl 1−x Br x ) 3 quantum-cutting layers for high-efficiency photovoltaics under real-world conditions
Yb 3+ -Doped lead-halide perovskites (Yb 3+ :CsPb(Cl 1−x Br x ) 3 ) have emerged as unique materials combining strong, tunable broadband absorption with near-infrared photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) approaching 200% at ambient temperature. These remarkable properties make Yb 3+ :CsPb(Cl 1−x Br x ) 3 an extremely promising candidate for spectral shaping in high-efficiency photovoltaic devices. Previous theoretical assessments of such “downconversion” devices have predicted single-junction efficiencies up to 40%, but have been highly idealized. Real materials like Yb 3+ :CsPb(Cl 1−x Br x ) 3 have practical limitations such as constrained band-gap and PL energies, non-directional emission, and an excitation-power-dependent PLQY. Hence, it is unclear whether Yb 3+ :CsPb(Cl 1−x Br x ) 3 , or any other non-ideal quantum-cutting material, can indeed boost the efficiencies of real high-performance PV. Here, we examine the thermodynamic, detailed-balance efficiency limit of Yb 3+ :CsPb(Cl 1−x Br x ) 3 on different existing PV under real-world conditions. Among these, we identify silicon heterojunction technology as very promising for achieving significant performance gains when paired with Yb 3+ :CsPb(Cl 1−x Br x ) 3 , and we predict power-conversion efficiencies of up to 32% for this combination. Surprisingly, PL saturation does not negate the improved device performance. Calculations accounting for actual hourly incident solar photon fluxes show that Yb 3+ :CsPb(Cl 1−x Br x ) 3 boosts power-conversion efficiencies at all times of day and year in two representative geographic locations. Predicted annual energy yields are comparable to those of tandem perovskite-on-silicon technologies, but without the need for current matching, tracking, or additional electrodes and inverters. In addition, we show that band-gap optimization in real quantum cutters is inherently a function of their PLQY and the ability to capture that PL. These results provide key design rules needed for development of high-efficiency quantum-cutting photovoltaic devices based on Yb 3+ :CsPb(Cl 1−x Br x ) 3 .  more » « less
Award ID(s):
1807394 1719797
PAR ID:
10105758
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ;
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Energy & Environmental Science
ISSN:
1754-5692
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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