New Publication in Joule: Molecular Dipole Engineering for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells Collaboration with Prof. Fei Zhang’s Group, Tianjin University
July 1, 2025
We are excited to share our recent publication in Joule, titled “Tunable molecular dipole moments and orientations for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells.” This collaborative work with Prof. Fei Zhang’s research group at the School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, explores how molecular dipole engineering can be harnessed to enhance the performance and stability of perovskite solar cells.
In this study, four tailored molecules with varying dipole moments were designed and synthesized to passivate perovskite films. Among them, PMA-CF₃, a molecule with a high dipole moment and favorable orientation, enabled perovskite layers with improved crystallinity, reduced defect densities, and more compatible energy alignment with C₆₀. This molecular strategy resulted in a champion device efficiency of 26.04%, with a certified steady-state efficiency of 25.62%, alongside excellent operational stability.
Highlights of the study:
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Design and synthesis of four passivation molecules with distinct dipole moments
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Systematic investigation of dipole moment strength and molecular orientation effects
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Achievement of over 26% power conversion efficiency with long-term stability
This work offers new insights into molecular interface engineering and demonstrates a promising route to push perovskite solar cell technologies further toward commercialization.