Boosting KSnI3-based perovskite solar cell efficiency by 22.78% through optimized charge transport and eco-friendly buffer layer

This study presents the development and modeling of lead-free KSnI 3 -based perovskite solar cells (PSCs), employing various combinations of charge transport layers and optimizing the device by integrating different buffer layers (IGZO, Cd 0.5 Zn 0.5 S, and 3C–SiC) using the SCAPS-1D tool. Our focus lies in identifying the most suitable electron transport layer (ETL), hole transport layer (HTL), and low-cost, non-toxic buffer layer to enhance (FTO/ETL/buffer layer/KSnI 3 /HTL/Au) device performance. Through meticulous analysis of multiple device parameters, including layer thicknesses, doping concentrations, and defect densities, we have identified SnO 2 -ETL, NiO-HTL, and 3C–SiC as the buffer layer, yielding impressive output photovoltaic parameters including power conversion efficiency (PCE of 22.78%), open-circuit voltage (V OC of 1.3923 V), current density (J SC of 18.27 mAcm −2 ), and fill factor (FF of 89.57%). These findings underscore the importance of material selection and device optimization in enhancing the efficiency (22.78%) and stability of PSCs, surpassing reported efficiency of up to 20.99%. Our results offer valuable insights into the development of highly efficient KSnI 3 -based PSCs, contributing to the progression of renewable energy technologies and sustainable resource utilization.