Engineering Hybrid Carbon Electrodes for Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells

Author: Luke Zink

Field of Study: Materials Science and Engineering

Program Affiliation: SCALE

Faculty Mentors: Tara Dhakal

Easel: 88

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have emerged as a promising low-cost alternative to traditional solar technologies due to their high efficiencies and simple fabrication. However, their widespread use is limited by stability issues and the need for expensive metal electrodes. Carbon-based electrodes offer a more stable, scalable, and affordable solution, but their lower conductivity and poor interfacial contact reduce performance. This work explores hybrid carbon electrodes combining multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and carbon black to improve charge transport and reduce resistance. By optimizing the electrode composition, solvent system, and interface quality, this study aims to enhance efficiency in hole transport layer-free PSCs. Electrical, structural, and photovoltaic measurements will be used to evaluate performance. Overall, this research seeks to close the performance gap with metal electrodes while maintaining the cost and stability advantages of carbon-based PSCs.