Advanced data analysis and measurement methods for high performance perovskites

In this project, advanced imaging and inspection methods will be developed, based on multispectral photoluminescence and electrical performance imaging, to allow implementation of fast, high resolution spatial characterisation of perovskite solar cells.

Start date

1 January 2023

Duration

4 years

Application deadline

Funding source

DTP

Funding information

  • UK home fees
  • Stipend: £15,609 per annual for four years plus £3,000 pa
  • £3,000 RTSG

About

Solar photovoltaic devices based on perovskite materials have demonstrated significant potential in recent years due to the high efficiencies achieved and their scalability potential. Such photovoltaic devices are already achieving certified efficiencies of 25.2% in glass substrates. Their manufacturing process is compatible with lightweight, flexible substrates, making them suitable for high W/kg applications (aircrafts, space, IoT devices, etc). However, optimisation for specific applications can be a challenge. A combination of innovative measurement techniques based on spatial optical and electrical characterisation, along with advanced data analysis methods (including AI and machine learning) could provide a step change in how to study these systems, helping to optimise manufacturing processes and resolve commercialisation challenges.

In this project, advanced imaging and inspection methods will be developed, based on multispectral photoluminescence and electrical performance imaging, to allow implementation of fast, high resolution spatial characterisation of perovskite solar cells. Different measurement methods will be combined to extract spatial electrical characteristics of samples. Novel data fusion methods and complex data analysis algorithms, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, will be developed to create digital twins of the measurement, such that virtual measurement optimisation can be established and validated by experimental data. These methods will provide new insights into how to enhance and tailor the manufacturing of perovskite solar cells for specific applications, such as space and indoors.

All facilities associated with NPL in Teddington and the Advanced Technology Institute at the University of Surrey relevant to the project will be made available to the successful candidate. The student will gain a wide range of transferable skills through the University of Surrey’s Doctoral College and the Postgraduate Institute for Measurement Science (PGI) and they will have the opportunity to collaborate with top quality research groups, while operating at the forefront of knowledge.

Related links

NPL

All facilities associated with the Advanced Technology Institute and NPL at Teddington relevant to the project will be made available to the successful candidate.

Studentships will be funded on a competitive basis in the University of Surrey funding round that will open in Autumn 2022. Successful applications will start in 2023.

Eligibility criteria

Candidates must hold a first-class degree or equivalent or distinction at masters.

This studentship is only available to UK students.

English language requirements

IELTS requirements: For non UK based courses an English requirement of 6.5 or above (or equivalent) with 6.0 in each individual category.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted via the Advanced Technology Institute PhD programme page on the "Apply" tab. Please clearly state the studentship title and supervisor on your application.

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Application deadline

Contact details

S. Ravi P. Silva
20 ATI 01
Telephone: +44 (0)1483 689825
E-mail: s.silva@surrey.ac.uk
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