Reproducible 2D TiCT for perovskite-based photovoltaic device

Ti 3 C 2 T x (T x denotes terminal group), resulting from two-dimensional (2D) Mxenes, has attracted significant attention due to energy shortage and catalysis. Herein, we present reproducible 2D Ti 3 C 2 T x obtained from commercial bulk Ti 3 AlC 2 using a cost-effective and environment-friendly approach. Both etching and exfoliation processes were investigated with the rational selection of etchant, reaction time and exfoliation solution. The hydrofluoric acid (HF) etchant plays a key role in the production of 2D Ti 3 C 2 T x and therefore the recycling of HF is addressed for reproducible 2D MXenes. Hazardous HF waste was also neutralized via CaF 2 precipitation according to the regulations for HF sewage. Equally important, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was employed to promote the exfoliation of multilayer Ti 3 C 2 T x MXenes into Ti 3 C 2 T x nanosheets in an aqueous solution, which can couple with terminal groups and protect the exfoliated single-layers from recombination, facilitating interface passivation toward perovskite solar devices. The resulting perovskite solar cell exhibited striking improvements to achieve champion efficiency, with a PCE of 19.11%, which accounts for 9% enhancement as compared to pristine devices. This study highlights the recycling of HF for reproducible 2D MXenes. Equally important, dimethyl sulfoxide was employed to promote the exfoliation of multilayer Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene into Ti 3 C 2 T x nanosheets in aqueous solution.