Synthesis and Characterisation of Perovskite Solar Cell Absorber Layers Using Locally Sourced Precursor Materials

Background: Perovskite solar cells have achieved rapid efficiency advances globally, but reliance on imported precursor materials limits accessibility for Nigerian research groups. Systematic investigation of locally sourced or synthesised precursor quality and its impact on cell performance is necessary. Aim: This study synthesised methylammonium lead iodide perovskite absorber layers using commercially available Nigerian-sourced and imported precursor materials and comparatively characterised their structural and photovoltaic properties. Methods: Perovskite films were deposited by one-step spin coating on fluorine-doped tin oxide substrates using solutions prepared from both precursor sources. Structural characterisation employed XRD, scanning electron microscopy, and optical absorption spectroscopy. Complete cell devices were characterised under AM1.5G illumination for current-voltage performance. Results: Local-precursor cells achieved a mean power conversion efficiency of 12.4% compared with 14.8% for imported precursor cells. XRD analysis showed comparable crystal quality but higher defect density evidenced by photoluminescence quenching in local-precursor films. Morphological analysis revealed larger crystallite sizes in local-precursor films attributed to precursor purity differences. Conclusion: Nigerian-sourced precursors yield competitive perovskite cells with addressable quality gaps. Precursor purification treatment is identified as the key intervention for closing the efficiency gap. Keywords: perovskite solar cell, absorber layer, local precursors, Nigeria, power conversion efficiency.