Structure–Property Engineering of Sn-Based Hybrid Perovskites via Bulky Organic Cation Incorporation: From 3D to 2D Architectures

Author

• Kevin Alejandro, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Date of Award

5-1-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Chemistry

First Advisor

M. Jasim Uddin

Second Advisor

Wei Lin

Third Advisor

Jose Gutierrez

Abstract

This thesis investigates tin-based hybrid organic/inorganic perovskites (HOIPs) as a lead-free alternative to silicon solar cells. To manipulate optoelectronic and efficiency of the semiconductors, methylammonium was substituted with bulky propylammonium and tetrabutylammonium cations to induce quasi-2D/3D Ruddlesden-Popper phases. X-Ray Diffraction confirmed 2D layered phases in propylammonium hybrids (5-15%), while tetrabutylammonium hybrids faced steric limits, triggering vacancy ordered perovskite phases at 1% concentration. Optical analysis showed a bandgap narrowing from 1.30 eV to 1.26 eV with increased substitution. Although photovoltaic performance generally declined, the 10% propylammonium hybrid achieved the highest fill factor of ~0.79, indicating superior internal charge transport. This work establishes robust synthesis protocols and provides a framework for engineering stable, lead-free perovskite semiconductors.

Comments

Copyright 2026 Kevin Alejandro. All Rights Reserved. https://proquest.com/docview/3371409911

Recommended Citation

Alejandro, K. (2026). Structure–Property Engineering of Sn-Based Hybrid Perovskites via Bulky Organic Cation Incorporation: From 3D to 2D Architectures [Master's thesis, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley]. ScholarWorks @ UTRGV. https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/1968