High-performance perovskite solar cell via chirality-engineered graphene quantum dot interface passivation

In the rapidly advancing field of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), achieving the Shockley–Queisser efficiency limit is primarily hindered by nonradiative recombination losses. In this study, the strategic incorporation of chiral graphene quantum dots (GQDs) at the PSC interface is pioneered, significantly mitigating these losses through this chiral interface engineering. Also in this study, by synthesizing and characterizing the chiroptic behavior and doping effects of both chiral and racemic GQDs, their pivotal role in enhancing charge extraction and transport is unveiled. In the findings of this study, it is shown that GQDs do not alter the crystallization of perovskite films but significantly boost light absorption owing to improved interfacial contact. Subsequent optical and electrical assessments reveal that the PSCs treated with chiral GQDs outperform those with racemic GQDs, primarily on account of the chiral specificity of chiral GQDs, which leads to reduced nonradiative recombination and enhanced charge transport efficiency. In this work, not only the potential of chiral GQDs is underscored in elevating PSC efficiency but also a compelling proof of concept for chiral interface engineering is established as a key to unlocking the full potential of PSCs.