journal article·2026-07Open access

Decoupling Intrinsic Molecular Efficacy From Platform Effects: An Interpretable Machine Learning Framework for Unbiased Perovskite Passivator Discovery

Jing Zhang, Ziyuan Li, Shan Gao, Zhen Zhu, Jing Wang, Xiangmei Duan

Advanced Science· Volume 13· Issue 41

Abstract

ABSTRACT Rational design of interface passivators for perovskite solar cells is hindered by the entanglement of intrinsic molecular efficacy with extrinsic platform‐dependent performance—a confounding factor that obscures true chemical advances. Here, we present a generalizable, interpretable machine learning framework that decouples these effects via an asymptotic saturation model, enabling unbiased discovery of molecules with genuine intrinsic gains. Trained on a curated dataset of 240 experimental entries, our model identifies hydrogen bond acceptor strength and electrostatic potential difference as key descriptors. Guided by these insights, we screened >121 million PubChem compounds using a hierarchical strategy integrating diversity clustering and uncertainty quantification. Five dual‐functional candidates (e.g., TDZ‐S, TZC‐F) are identified, exhibiting superior predicted efficacy (surpassing experimental benchmarks) and high confidence. First‐principles calculations confirm strong chemisorption (E ads <−1.7 eV), net electron donation, and optimized interfacial energetics. Crucially, our closed‐loop “data–interpretation–screening–verification” pipeline establishes a transferable paradigm for rational materials design, extendable to other optoelectronic interfaces beyond perovskites.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Machine Learning in Materials Science · Perovskite Materials and Applications · Ammonia Synthesis and Nitrogen Reduction

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

School of Physical Science and Technology Ningbo University Ningbo China

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China

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