Decomposition and Cell Failure Mechanisms in Lead Halide Perovskite Solar Cells

Perovskite solar cells have experienced a remarkably rapid rise in power conversion efficiencies, with state-of-the-art devices now competing with multicrystalline silicon and thin-film cadmium telluride in terms of efficiency. Unfortunately, the lead halide perovskite absorbers suffer from a lack of chemical stability and decompose in response to a variety of environmental stimuli. In this Forum Article, we provide a brief overview of the decomposition mechanisms in lead halide perovskite thin films, as well as the processes contributing to cell failure in finished devices. We finish by briefly surveying recent efforts to extend the device lifetime. Ultimately, if perovskite solar cells can be made stable, they will be an exciting, highly complementary addition to existing photovoltaic technologies.