Newswise \u2014 Researchers from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, et al. have conducted a review entitled \u201cMicrostructural disorder in perovskite photovoltaics\u201d. This review was published in Front. Chem. Sci. Eng., Volume 19, Issue 9.<\/p>\n
Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) are promising semiconductors for photovoltaics, with perovskite solar cells (PSCs) achieving over 27% power conversion efficiency (PCE). However, the quantitative structure-property relationship of MHPs remains unclear, and microstructural disorders across multiple spatial scales have underexplored impacts. The aim of this review is to establish a framework for transitioning from microstructure observation to control. The researchers elaborated on hidden microstructural disorders (interfacial disorders and intra-crystal disorders), their formation mechanisms, and effects on PSCs\u2019 mechanical reliability and long-term stability. They also discussed theory-driven engineering strategies to mitigate these disorders, relying on a combination of theoretical modeling and experimental characterization.<\/p>\n
Key findings include the identification of interfacial disorders such as grain boundary grooves (GBGs), nanoscale groove traps (nano-GTs), and grain surface concavities (GSCs), which disrupt charge transport, induce ion migration, and weaken mechanical integrity. Intra-crystal disorders (ICDs) like dislocations, stacking faults, and nanoclusters show dual effects\u2014accommodating strain while causing performance heterogeneity. Notably, strategies such as interfacial energy tuning with additives (e.g., i-BACl, BAAc, TFSAP) and in situ defect healing via low-dose stimuli effectively mitigate these disorders, improving PCE retention (over 90% for 1000\u20131500 h) and mechanical reliability.<\/p>\n