A Critical Review on Crystal Growth Techniques for Scalable Deposition of Photovoltaic Perovskite Thin Films

Abstract

Although the efficiency of small-size perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has reached an incredible level of 25.25%, there is still a substantial loss in performance when switching from small size devices to large-scale solar modules. The large efficiency deficit is primarily associated with the big challenge of coating homogeneous, large-area, high-quality thin films via scalable processes. Here, we provide a comprehensive understanding of the nucleation and crystal growth kinetics, which are the key steps for perovskite film formation. Several thin-film crystallization techniques, including antisolvent, hot-casting, vacuum quenching, and gas blowing, are then summarized to distinguish their applications for scalable fabrication of perovskite thin films. In viewing the essential importance of the film morphology on device performance, several strategies including additive engineering, Lewis acid-based approach, solvent annealing, etc., which are capable of modulating the crystal morphology of perovskite film, are discussed. Finally, we summarize the recent progress in the scalable deposition of large-scale perovskite thin film for high-performance devices.

Hybrid Perovskite Thin Film

“…Blade coating is a highly established, scalable and extensively employed method preferred in fabrication of perovskite thin film for PSCs. It is a promising deposition technique due to little material waste, facile operation, and compatibility with roll-to-roll fabrication [16]. Blade coating was initially employed for manufacturing of dye-sensitized solar cells [16].…”

“…It is a promising deposition technique due to little material waste, facile operation, and compatibility with roll-to-roll fabrication [16]. Blade coating was initially employed for manufacturing of dye-sensitized solar cells [16]. But recently, it has been applied to the deposition of large-area perovskite films after skillfully amended [12].…”

“…Generally, the thickness of wet layer should be approximately half the distance between the substrate and the blade. The thickness and the quality of the blade coated film is usually ascertained by different physical factors such as surface energy of the substrate, surface tension and solution viscosity [16].…”

“…The perovskite film could be obtained, after drying and annealing. Quick and precise coating applied to the slot die is beneficial for the preparation of large-scale with high performance [16].…”

“…Spray coating is a valuable low-temperature thin film deposition technique that allows a uniform, high coating rate applicable for various substrates. This method likewise draws great interest in the preparation of perovskite thin films [16]. But, little research on perovskite has been recorded employing the spray coating technique, maybe due to the instability of PSCs.…”