Sustainable Decentralised Storage: Integrated Perovskite Solar Cells-Zinc Quasi-Solid Batteries (PSC-ZB)

Self-powered integrated solar rechargeable batteries are becoming a safe and practical solution for power backup in remote areas, disaster zones and inconsistent sunlight regions. The high indoor energy conversion efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and non-explosive quasi-solid zinc batteries (ZBs) are promising options for next generation energy conversion and storage devices. Novel ZBs offer high-energy, leak-proof safety, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness, making them superior to the explosive Li-ion batteries (LiBs). Solar rechargeable ZBs (PSC-ZB) can effectively generate and store solar energy in a two-electrode battery, simplifying the design and minimising external energy loss. However, several major challenges hinder the mass adoption of PSC-ZB: (i) low efficient common photoactive cathode, and (ii) destabilisation and short cycle life caused by side reactions on Zn anode. Firstly, the proposal involves a initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD) process to develop compact, fully lead-closed PSC-ZB with a cathode via bifunctional heterojunction concept (BCH). This design incorporates a safe-by-design self-power supply unit that enables immediate storage of solar-to-electrochemical energy. The MXene-encapsulated cathode, developed using the Stöber method, and the dendrite-free anode, improved with Na+ electrolyte additives and protective coatings can significantly enhance the cycling stability and energy efficiency of PSC-ZBs. The main goal of PSC-ZB is to boost efficiency (>12%) and stability by increasing active sites, shortening diffusion pathways, and enhancing anode plating and stripping cycles. Achieving PSC-ZB goals would advance state-of-the-art direct solar-to-electrochemical batteries in a simple two-electrode format, crucial for meeting EU environmental targets for a cost-effective and eco-friendly energy system. This fellowship offers an excellent opportunity to achieve long-term career goals and expand my knowledge.