Templated-seeding renders tailored crystallization in perovskite photovoltaics: path towards future efficient modules

Abstract

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are extensively studied due to their low cost and high power-conversion efficiency. However, the scalable fabrication of pinhole-free perovskite films with uniform coverage and large well-crystallized grains still remains a significant challenge to date. Currently, the seed-assisted growth technique is emerging as a useful approach for enhancing the device performance of PSCs by finely tuning the morphology of the perovskite film, affording heterogeneous nucleation sites that improve the quality of crystallization. In this perspective, we provide a concise overview of the seed-assisted crystallization strategy, encompassing the provision of heterogeneous nucleation sites, reduction of energy barriers, control over nucleation processes, and the necessity and benefits of implementing this approach in perovskite modules, all of which collectively lead to notable improvements in perovskite device performance. By highlighting the application of the above templated crystallization in a scalable process, we propose that the deliberate integration of consistently oriented and uniformly-sized seeds during large-area coating holds the potential to yield superior film crystallization uniformity and heightened efficiency in the module. We hope this perspective can screen the detailed information on crystal growth in PSC and shed light on both theoretical framework and experimental approach for future efficient perovskite solar modules.