Perovskites on Ice: An Additive‐Free Approach to Increase the Shelf‐Life of Triple‐Cation Perovskite Precursor Solutions. Issue 12 (28th May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: O'Kane, Mary E.; Smith, Joel A.; Alanazi, Tarek I.; Cassella, Elena J.; Game, Onkar; van Meurs, Sandra; Lidzey, David G.
• Is Part Of: ChemSusChem. Volume 14:Issue 12(2021)
• Page Start: 2537
• Page End: 2546
• Publication Date: 2021-05-28
• Subjects: perovskites -- photovoltaics -- solar cells -- solution chemistry -- solution processing; Green chemistry -- Periodicals; Sustainable engineering -- Periodicals; Chemistry -- Periodicals; Chemical engineering -- Periodicals; 660
• DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202100332
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1864-5631

Abstract

Abstract: The development of stable perovskite precursor solutions is critical if solution‐processable perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are to be practically manufacturable. Ideally, such precursors should combine high solution stability without using chemical additives that might compromise PSC performance. Here, it was shown that the shelf‐life of high‐performing perovskite precursors could be greatly improved by storing solutions at low‐temperature without the need to alter chemical composition. Devices fabricated from solutions stored for 31 days at 4 °C achieved a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.6 % (97 % of original PCE). The choice of precursor solvent also impacted solution shelf‐life, with DMSO‐based solutions having enhanced solution stability compared to those including DMF. The compositions of aged precursors were explored using NMR spectroscopy, and films made from these solutions were analysed using X‐ray diffraction. It was concluded that the improvement in precursor solution stability is directly linked to the suppression of an addition‐elimination reaction and the preservation of higher amounts of methylammonium within solution. Abstract : Ice ice baby : The stability of perovskite precursor solutions is of significant importance as it plays a role in defining the ease by which photovoltaic devices can potentially be manufactured. By studying both solution chemistry and device performance, a simple low‐temperature storage protocol is developed to increase solution shelf life that does not require perovskite composition or stoichiometry to be modified. Devices fabricated from precursor solutions stored at 4 °C for up to one month have the same efficiency as those produced from freshly fabricated controls.