Multifunctional Nanofiber Reinforcement of Perovskite Solar Cells for Resilience in Space

This proposal aims to address the intrinsic fragility of thin-film metal halide perovskite photovoltaics by compositing the perovskite layer with polymer nanofibers. The research objective is to investigate the molecular interactions between the polymer nanofibers and perovskite that result in previously observed improved mechanical robustness and retainment of perovskite electronic properties. I will analyze mechanical properties of these composites using techniques such as double cantilever beam (DCB), which quantifies the fracture toughness of the nanocomposite films, and wafer curvature measurements with an multibeam optical sensor (MOS), which quantifies the residual stresses found in the films before and after thermal and humidity exposures. Chemical stability of the perovskite will be monitored by exposing materials to thermal cycling and ex situ measurements of X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence, and power conversion efficiency. This work will directly impact Gap C1: Solar Power of the NASA LIVE: Power and Energy Storage Systems Space Technology Mission Directorate by researching low TRL perovskite photovoltaics to help overcome current durability and power output limitations in Earth-sourced solar blankets. Perovskite-based photovoltaic technologies are advantageous for powering sustained presence at the Lunar poles and setup of ISRU production due to their high power-to-weight ratio, which can significantly lower payload costs associated with transporting the devices to colony sites. Furthermore, metal halide perovskite devices could potentially be manufactured in-space, making them ideal for deploying large-scale (>50 kW) photovoltaic arrays in the lunar polar environment.

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