Progress in Surface Modification of SnO2 Electron Transport Layers for Stable Perovskite Solar Cells

Abstract

The photovoltaic (PV) performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has rapidly advanced in the recent years; yet, the stability issue remains one of the last-mile challenges on the road to commercialization. Charge transport layers and their interfaces with perovskites stand for critical tuning knobs that determine the device stability of PSCs. This review focuses on the effects of modification of SnO2 electron transport layers (ETLs) on the interfacial physicochemical properties and stability of PSC devices. In detail, the intrinsic defects, surface hydroxyls, and nonuniform morphology of SnO2 will negatively impact its interfacial physicochemical properties, thus degrading the device stability of PSCs. To tackle these existing issues, three modification approaches, such as surface morphology control, surface physicochemical modifications, and surface composite-structure design, are categorized. Lastly, future perspectives in further promoting the stability of PSCs from SnO2 ETLs are raised based on the currently unresolved issues from both material and device levels.