Low-Dimensional Heterostructure-Based Solar Cells

Huge demand for eco-friendly and less polluting energy resources has been considered a rising issue, as non-renewable sources of energy such as fossil fuels and petroleum have gradually run out. Among all, solar power has been proven to provide unlimited and energetically viable resource. To develop solar cells with high power conversion efficiencies, several factors have been taken as vital requirements, such as efficient charge separation, carrier transportation, and collection. In this regard, low-dimensional materials have been recognized as highly potential candidates due to their superior photonic, optoelectronic, and electric characteristics. In this chapter, the recent progresses in high-performance solar cells based on low-dimensional materials are comprehensively described. Furthermore, impacts of heterostructures created by the combination of low-dimensional materials on device performance are highlighted to elucidate their advantages and capabilities of replacing traditional Si-based devices. Finally, the probabilities of combining low-dimensional materials to fabricate hybrid solar cells are also discussed, and the future development of nanomaterials towards next-generation solar cells is summarized.