Lead Sequestration from Perovskite Solar Cells Using a Metal–Organic Framework Polymer Composite

Abstract

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have increased in power conversion efficiency in the last 10 years, from ≈3% to now over 25%. While the best perovskite photovoltaics have remarkable efficiencies, the Pb‐based absorber is likely problematic for commercialization due to environmental concerns. To address this inevitable issue, a porous metal–organic framework (MOF) polymer composite is applied, known as FeBTC/PDA that is used in “safe‐by‐design” perovskite solar panels. The material is based on a porous MOF scaffold containing a polymeric metal binding agent. Herein, the activity of this material to sequester lead from several solutions is demonstrated, including simulated perovskite solutions, solutions containing decomposed perovskite thin films, and real‐world solutions obtained from damaged solar cell devices in a range of temperatures and conditions, and contaminated water derived from damaged PSCs is brought below the drinkable standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).