Advancements in nanomaterials for solar energy harvesting: Challenges, innovations, and future prospects

Abstract

To date, the advancement of clean and sustainable energy sources has been a primary focus of research, addressing the global increase in energy consumption and related environmental issues. The swift progress of nanomaterials in solar energy conversion has generated significant interest owing to their exceptional structural and optoelectronic characteristics. This review paper examines the cutting-edge innovations and practical implementations of nanomaterials such as nanoparticles, quantum dots, nanorods, nanospheres, nanoflowers, nanocomposites, nanotubes, and one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) materials in the development of next-generation solar cells. We examine the incorporation of mentioned nanomaterials as absorber layers, doping agents, and modification agents in several solar cell designs. These materials are perfect for increasing the scalability and efficiency of solar energy conversion systems because of their special qualities, which include enhanced charge carrier dynamics and tunable bandgaps. We address critical issues like scalability, cost, and environmental concerns while discussing their contributions to improving light absorption, charge separation, and device stability. Moreover, this review clarifies the new device architectures utilizing nanomaterials as absorber layers, revealing the complex mechanisms that contribute to their enhanced performance and realistic stability behaviors. In order to overcome obstacles and fully utilize the potential of nanomaterials for sustainable energy solutions, we conclude by outlining future directions with a focus on interdisciplinary approaches. Interdisciplinary collaboration and ongoing refinement can fully realize the potential of new kinds of nanomaterials, offering significant solutions to global energy concerns and advancing scientific advancement in this emerging sector.