Infrared Solution‐Processed Quantum Dot Solar Cells Reaching External Quantum Efficiency of 80% at 1.35 µm and Jsc in Excess of 34 mA cm−2

Abstract

Developing low‐cost photovoltaic absorbers that can harvest the short‐wave infrared (SWIR) part of the solar spectrum, which remains unharnessed by current Si‐based and perovskite photovoltaic technologies, is a prerequisite for making high‐efficiency, low‐cost tandem solar cells. Here, infrared PbS colloidal quantum dot (CQD) solar cells employing a hybrid inorganic–organic ligand exchange process that results in an external quantum efficiency of 80% at 1.35 µm are reported, leading to a short‐circuit current density of 34 mA cm−2 and a power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 7.9%, which is a current record for SWIR CQD solar cells. When this cell is placed at the back of an MAPbI3 perovskite film, it delivers an extra 3.3% PCE by harnessing light beyond 750 nm.Peer ReviewedPostprint (author's final draft