Department of Chemistry - PhD Student Seminar - Sub-3D Lattice Architectures and Carrier Dynamics in Next-Generation Solar Cells

Student: Ms. Yingtong ZHU

Department: Department of Chemistry, HKUST

Supervisor(s): Professor Haibin SU

Abstract

Traditional 3D solar cells face inherent performance and stability limits due to power losses and defect-induced recombination. To overcome these barriers, this seminar explores the transition to sub-3D lattice architectures in next-generation photovoltaics by systematically examining the frontiers of dimensional reduction. In the 2D regime, we discuss utilizing quasi-2D perovskite quantum wells with zwitterionic surface passivation and phosphine oxide edge-stabilization to suppress degradation. Moving to the 1D frontier of van der Waals ribbons, we explore mitigating deep-level defects and selenium vacancies in antimony chalcogenides via oxygen passivation and Fermi-level engineering. Finally, at the 0D limit of colloidal quantum confinement, we examine enhancing optical absorption through homogeneous cation disorder in AgBiS2 nanocrystals and developing stable inks for large-area deployment. Ultimately, traversing from 3D to 0D architectures—coupled with targeted defect management at every scale—offers a robust pathway for realizing highly efficient and stable solar cells.