Degradation and Self-Healing in Perovskite Solar Cells

Organic-inorganic halide perovskites are well-known for their unique self-healing ability. In the presence of strong external stimuli, such as light, temperature, and moisture, high-energy defects are created which can be healed by removing the perovskite from the degradation source. This self-healing ability has been showcased in devices with recoverable performance and day-and-night cycling operation to dramatically extend the device lifetime and even mechanical durability. However, to date, the mechanistic details and theory around this captivating trait are sparse and convoluted by the complex nature of perovskites. With a clear understanding of the intrinsic self-healing property, perovskite solar cells with extended lifetimes and durability can be designed to realize the large-scale commercialization of perovskite solar cells. Here, we spotlight the relevant degradation and self-healing literature and then propose design strategies to help conceptualize future research.