Recently, researchers Yang Dong and Liu Shengzhong from the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, published a review article on the lattice mismatch in perovskite solar cells. They systematically discussed the impact of lattice mismatch on material stability and charge carrier transport dynamics, summarized current optimization strategies including epitaxial growth and buffer layers, and explored future solutions to alleviate issues caused by mismatch. The findings were published in "Angewandte Chemie International Edition."
In semiconductor science, lattice mismatch is a critical phenomenon caused by the difference in lattice constants between the substrate and its epitaxial layers. The mismatch in lattice constants of two materials often leads to stress near the heterojunction growth interface. This stress, in turn, results in lattice defects and dislocations. In perovskite solar cells, the lattice mismatch between the perovskite semiconductor thin film and the metal oxide charge transport layer significantly affects the growth of perovskite films and the optoelectronic performance of devices.
The article focuses on investigating the lattice mismatch issue in perovskite solar cell heterojunctions, summarizes the negative effects of lattice mismatch on perovskite solar cells, and details methods to characterize lattice mismatch and current optimization strategies for addressing heterojunction lattice mismatch issues. These strategies include epitaxial growth techniques based on substrate materials, aiming to achieve better lattice alignment and minimize the adverse effects of dislocations. Additionally, the use of buffer layers to mitigate lattice stress and exploration of new materials for buffer layers can more effectively release stress, control ion migration, and enhance the performance of perovskite solar cells.
This review elaborates on the challenges and prospects of lattice mismatch in perovskite solar cell heterojunctions, providing an effective pathway for the development of the next generation of efficient and stable perovskite solar cells.
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