Structure and Performance Evolution of Perovskite Solar Cells under Extreme Temperatures

Metal halide perovskite solar cells may work for application in extreme temperatures, such as those experienced under extraterrestrial conditions. However, device performances in extreme temperatures are poorly investigated. This work systematically explores the performance of perovskite solar cells between -160 and 150 degrees C. In situ grazing-incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering discloses perovskite phase transition and crystal disordering as dominant factors for the temperature-dependent device efficiency deterioration. It is shown that perovskite lattice strain and relaxation originating from extreme temperature variations are recoverable, and so are the perovskite structure and photovoltaic performances. This work provides insights into the functioning under extreme temperatures, clarifying bottlenecks to overcome and the potential for extraterrestrial applications.