Abstract
In this paper, we developed a opto-electro-thermal model using the 3D finite element method (FEM) in order to assess the temperature-dependent performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The FEM-based model we developed is fully coupled, allowing us to model the optical absorption, charge transport, and heat generation processes all at once, which will provide a more precise evaluation of device performance. Four perovskite absorber materials (MASnI\(_3\), MAPbI\(_3\), CsPbI\(_3\), and CsSnI\(_3\)) were evaluated based on three heat generation mechanisms: Joule heating, non-radiative recombination, and thermalization. Based on the proposed model, the extent of temperature rise within the device and its impact on device performance-primarily open-circuit voltage (\(V_{oc}\)) and power conversion efficiency (PCE) are assessed. The simulation results show that the temperature-dependent performance of the PSC, varies according to the absorption layer material, as each type of absorber showed unique thermal behavior. In particular, CsSnI\(_3\) exhibited notable temperature-dependent performance under thermal coupling, with a \(V_{oc}\) reduction of only 2.38% and a PCE variation of 9.12%, showing a high photovoltaic response but higher temperature sensitivity under temperature variation compared to CsPbI\(_3\).
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The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.
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The code used in this study is available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
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M.R. and R.S. initiated the idea. M.R. and R.S. developed the concept. R.S. wrote the simulation algorithm and did the calculations and theoretical analysis. M.R. supervised the study. All authors discussed the content, analyzed the data, reviewed, and edited the manuscript.
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Suldozi, R., Razaghi, M. Investigation of perovskite solar cell temperature-dependent performance: a coupled opto-electro-thermal modeling approach. Sci Rep (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-48525-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-48525-z
