Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes in Emerging Solar Cells: Synthesis and Electrode Applications

Emerging solar cells, namely, organic solar cells and perovskite solar cells, are the thin-film photovoltaics that have light to electricity conversion efficiencies close to that of silicon solar cells while possessing advantages in having additional functionalities, facile-processability, and low fabrication cost. To maximize these advantages, the electrode components must be replaced by materials that are more flexible and cost-effective. Researchers around the globe have been looking for the new electrodes that meet these requirements. Among many candidates, single-walled carbon nanotubes have demonstrated their feasibility as the new alternative to conventional electrodes, such as indium tin oxide and metals. This review discusses various growth methods of single-walled carbon nanotubes and their electrode applications in thin-film photovoltaics.