The conductivity of perovskite solar cells (C-PSC) depends on the carbon/perovskite interface, which is influenced by both the surface area and the interfacial thickness. The first is determined by how much perovskite is adsorbing on carbon. The second is affected by contact resistance between the carbon/perovskite interface layer and the substrate. To reduce the latter, a highly-compact carbon layer must be formed during the deposition by the electrode paste. To achieve this, CPs should be free of any impurities that might interfere with the band energy alignment between the perovskite and the underlying carbon. In addition, CPs should be capable of maintaining their thermal stability during the fabrication process.
Various CPs have been used for the fabrication of C-PSCs, with different carbon allotropes, additives, and binder materials influencing their properties and performances. For example, ethyl cellulose is a polymer binder commonly used in the manufacture CPs. The choice should be made carefully to ensure that resulting CPs will have a strong bond and good chemical compatibility when used with spiroOMeTAD based HTL in C-PSCs. The CPs should also be able create a high quality carbon layer with negligible pore size to enhance the conductivity in C-PSCs.
Moreover, it is vital that the CPs have a suitable viscosity to enable their easy handling during the deposition process. Consequently, additives such as plasticisers and surfactants are often included in CPs to increase their fluidity. In addition, they also help to increase the spreading and wetting properties of CPs to facilitate the C-PSC deposition.
For market players, ongoing research and developmental activities to improve CPs and increase the efficiency corresponding devices opens new opportunities. The use of bio-carbon materials and innovative manufacturing methods can significantly contribute to the growth in the global electrode paste industry.
The global Electrode Paste Market is growing due to the increasing demand for carbon electrodes from various end-use industries. The COVID-19 pandemic caused temporary factory shutdowns and disrupted supplies chains, which resulted lower production volumes, and reduced demand, for carbon products. As the economy recovers, and industrial activity resumes, the electrode paste industry is expected to grow at a faster pace. Besides, strategic collaborations and partnerships can help players gain a competitive edge. This includes a common pool of resources, expertise, and enhanced research and development abilities. Moreover, it allows them to introduce new products and expand their geographic reach.
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