Tof-Sims Analysis of Degradation Pathway in Lead-Halide Perovskites

Secondary ion mass spectrometry study of organic and inorganic interfaces in methylammonium lead triiodide solar cells

“…This observation is consistent with previous studies on MAPbI 3 degradation processes. 8,24,31 Furthermore, this finding may also be consistent with the lower Voc observed in device A compared to device B, both made under the same fabrication conditions (blue and red lines in Figure 3). It is well-established in the literature that the decomposition of perovskite films and chemical reactions of the decomposition products with the selective layers (ETL and HTL) or the electrode, 43,44 are associated with a decrease in Voc.…”

“…These columns were previously identified as PbI 2 crystals and are visualized through the local increase in the yield of methylammonium cluster ions, attributable to the matrix effect . 24,25 In our previous works 24,25 and other report in literature , 38 the formation of columnar structures was attributed to the heating of perovskite during thermal annealing process. During this process, the perovskite undergoes degradation, leading to the formation of a new phase (PbI 2 ) in the form of crystallites that penetrate throughout the entire perovskite layer.…”

“…[21][22][23] Additionally, TOF-SIMS enables the investigation of the degradation processes occurring at these interfaces under different conditions, shedding light on the mechanisms that may impact the long-term stability and performance of perovskite solar cells. 24,25 In this study, we conduct a detailed examination of the interfaces within the device structure using the TOF-SIMS technique. Additionally, we utilize scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to study the surface structure of the interfaces, complementing our understanding of their morphology and characteristics.…”