Nature-Inspired Structure Design for Robust and Efficient Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells

Flexible perovskite solar cells (f-PSCs) expand the application potential of photovoltaic technologies, while their limited mechanical durability and low efficiency remain significant barriers to practical deployment. Achieving both high strength and toughness is essential for robust f-PSCs, but these two parameters are typically mutually exclusive. In nature, many materials with specialized structures exhibit a unique combination of light-weight, strength, and toughness, offering valuable inspiration for the structural design of advanced f-PSCs. Herein, the inherent conflict between mechanical strength and toughness is first elucidated, followed by an exploration of how nature-inspired structures provide effective compromises to overcome this trade-off. Recent advances of nature-inspired f-PSCs are then systematically reviewed. For instance, the integration of nature-inspired structures into the perovskites, substrates, and electrodes of f-PSCs significantly enhances their intrinsic mechanical properties. Moreover, the device architectures of f-PSCs have been inspired by natural structures that facilitate energy dissipation, thereby breaking the intrinsic mechanical limitations of the material. In addition, other functionalities such as anti-reflection, anti-fouling, lead chelating, self-healing, and self-sealing are also imparted by emulating natural structures, thereby enhancing the efficiency and stability of f-PSCs without compromising their mechanical integrity. Finally, the conclusions and future outlook on nature-inspired f-PSCs are presented, offering insights into potential research directions and opportunities for advancing their practical applications.