Gamma-ray dose threshold for MAPbI₃ solar cells.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Solid-State Physics
• Photovoltaics

Background:

• Methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) is a promising perovskite material for solar cells.
• Understanding the stability of MAPbI3 under ionizing radiation is crucial for its application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of gamma-ray irradiation on MAPbI3 polycrystalline films and solar cells.
• To determine the dose threshold for MAPbI3 degradation and identify potential benefits of low-dose exposure.

Main Methods:

• Photoluminescence spectroscopy
• Time-resolved photoluminescence
• Suns-VOC measurements
• Impedance spectroscopy

Main Results:

• Low gamma-ray doses (3-5 kGy) reduced defect centers, enhancing carrier lifetime and extraction.
• Higher doses (≥10 kGy) led to predominant non-radiative recombination, degrading material performance.
• A gamma-ray threshold of approximately 10 kGy was identified for MAPbI3 stability.

Conclusions:

• MAPbI3 exhibits a dose-dependent response to gamma radiation, with a critical threshold around 10 kGy.
• The material shows potential for space applications due to its tolerance to typical yearly doses.
• Gamma irradiation can be explored as a method to improve defective perovskite films before use in radiation-free environments.