Organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite materials are promising for various applications, particularly solar cells, due to their excellent light absorption and charge transport properties. However, these materials are also sensitive to environmental conditions, primarily moisture and oxygen, which can degrade their performance over time.
Several encapsulation techniques have been developed to protect perovskite materials from environmental degradation:
Physical Encapsulation: This is the most straightforward method, where the perovskite layer is physically sealed off from the environment with a protective layer. This can be done using materials like glass, metal, or polymers. Typically, an adhesive or sealant is used to secure the protective layer and ensure no gaps are present where moisture or oxygen could penetrate.
Thin Film Coatings: Special thin film coatings can be deposited onto the perovskite surface to provide protection. These could include layers of metal oxides (like Al2O3 or SiO2), organic polymers, or other materials. These coatings can be applied to atomic layer deposition (ALD) or chemical vapour deposition (CVD).
Hydrophobic Coating: Coating the perovskite layer with a hydrophobic material can help repel water and reduce moisture-related degradation. For instance, some research has shown that fullerene derivatives can provide hydrophobic properties and enhance the moisture resistance of perovskite solar cells.
Incorporation of Additives or Passivation Layers: Certain additives can be included in the perovskite layer to improve stability. For instance, alkylammonium ions have been used to enhance the moisture stability of perovskite materials. Additionally, passivation layers can reduce defect sites and improve the stability and efficiency of perovskite solar cells.
Use of Barrier Films: High-quality barrier films, often made from multiple layers of different materials, can provide very effective encapsulation. These films can adhere to the perovskite layer using a suitable encapsulant, which can also help absorb any moisture penetrating the barrier film.
Ultimately, the optimal choice of encapsulation technique will depend on the specific perovskite material and the intended application. The encapsulation method must also be compatible with the rest of the device fabrication process.