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Updated: Jun 15, 2026

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Influence of Hybrid Perovskite Fabrication Methods on Film Formation, Electronic Structure, and Solar Cell Performance
Published on: February 27, 2017
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Humidity-Induced Degradation Processes of Halide Perovskites Unveiled by Correlative Analytical Electron Microscopy
Salim Mejaouri1,2,3, Stefania Cacovich4, Philippe Baranek1,2
1EDF R&D, EDF Lab Paris-Saclay, Department SYSTEME, Palaiseau, 91120, France.
Small Methods
|October 6, 2023
Summary
Moisture degrades perovskite solar cells (PSCs) by altering the absorber material. This study reveals specific crystalline phases formed during degradation, offering insights to enhance PSC stability.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Renewable Energy
- Photovoltaics
Background:
- Improving the operational stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is critical for their commercial viability.
- Moisture exposure is a known factor that degrades PSC performance by inducing phase transitions or segregation in the perovskite absorber layer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chemical and structural evolution of a specific hybrid perovskite thin-film (CsMAFA) under controlled humidity conditions.
- To understand the degradation mechanisms in PSCs to inform strategies for enhancing device stability.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a multi-scale analytical approach including Photoluminescence, X-ray Diffraction Spectroscopy, Cathodoluminescence, Selected Area Electron Diffraction, and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy.
- Analyzed the degradation products and their optical/chemical properties at microscopic levels.
Main Results:
- Identified the formation of distinct crystalline degradation phases: lead-iodide (PbI2), inorganic mixed halide CsPb(I0.9Br0.1)3, and lead-rich CsPb2(I0.74Br0.26)5.
- Observed that these crystalline phases possess unique geometrical shapes that significantly impact the optoelectronic properties of the thin film.
Conclusions:
- The multi-scale characterization provided detailed insights into the specific degradation pathways of hybrid perovskite materials.
- Understanding these degradation mechanisms and the resulting crystalline phases is key to developing more stable and efficient PSCs.
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