The role of perovskite composition, dimensionality, and additives in lead-free perovskite solar cells longevity: a review

Abstract

To date, the future of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) focuses on overcoming stability and toxicity challenges through advanced material engineering and device design. In this review, we present an overview and current progress of lead-free-based PSCs such as tin-, stibium-, bismuth-, and germanium-based. Development of B-site doping and A/X-site engineering to mitigate oxidation, defect formation, and phase segregation, while maintaining its lattice integrity is extensively discussed. Two distinct factors that could influence PSC stability are outlined: Intrinsic nature of materials and environmental factors. Thus, we unveil the implication of hybrid two-dimensional/three-dimensional (2D/3D) architectures, exemplifying the synergistic effects of the high charge mobility of 3D perovskites and the environmental robustness of 2D layers. Here we revisit compositional tuning, dimensionality control, additive engineering, and interfacial passivation, potentially enhancing the next-generation PSCs with high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and long-term stability. These directions would trigger the realization of environmentally sustainable solar-to-electricity devices, transitioning from lab-scale innovation to renewable energy solutions.