Ordered liquid crystal-SAM supramolecules stabilize perovskite interfaces
A collaborative study with Prof. Fei Zhang and colleagues at Tianjin University
We are pleased to share our latest collaborative work, “Ordered liquid crystal-SAM supramolecules stabilize perovskite interfaces,” published in Joule.
In collaboration with Prof. Fei Zhang and colleagues at Tianjin University, the study introduces a liquid crystal-SAM supramolecular strategy to control the molecular organization of 4PADCB contacts. The approach reduces SAM aggregation, improves molecular ordering and facilitates charge transport at the ITO/perovskite interface.
Molecular ordering strengthens the interface
The optimized supramolecular contact improved both the electronic properties of the interface and its resistance to mechanical stress.
Measuring interfacial adhesion
Cem Yilmaz, PhD researcher in the Aydin Group, performed a series of pull-off measurements to quantify the mechanical adhesion of the ITO/perovskite interface.
The average interfacial adhesion strength increased from 0.32 MPa for the control to 0.57 MPa with nBuO-TPEP and 0.44 MPa with nHeO-TPEP.
Cem Yilmaz →
Improved interfaces, improved device performance
The optimized nBuO-TPEP contact contributed to improved charge transport, reduced interfacial defects and enhanced photovoltaic performance.
This work was carried out in collaboration with Prof. Fei Zhang and his team at Tianjin University, bringing together expertise in molecular interfaces, photovoltaic devices and mechanical characterization.
Ordered liquid crystal-SAM supramolecules stabilize perovskite interfaces
Yating Shi, Hongqiang Guo, Yingguo Yang, Lang Wen, Chuanxiao Xiao, Cem Yilmaz, Yifan Chen, Hong Zhang, Erkan Aydin and Fei Zhang
Joule · DOI: 10.1016/j.joule.2026.102636
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