Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analyses of encapsulated stable perovskite solar cells

TLDR

Perovskite solar cells degrade thermally, especially the methylammonium cation, but encapsulation can bring reactions to equilibrium and shield against moisture. The authors evaluated multiple encapsulation strategies for perovskite films and devices by analyzing volatile degradation products with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Pressure‑tight polymer/glass encapsulation effectively suppressed gas transfer and enabled methylammonium‑based solar cells to withstand severe moisture and thermal cycling. Shi et al.

Abstract

Perovskite decomposition in detail Solar cells are subject to heating when operating in sunlight, and the organic components of hybrid perovskite solar cells, especially the commonly used methylammonium cation, can undergo thermal decomposition. Encapsulation can limit decomposition by bringing such reactions to equilibrium and can prevent exposure to damaging ambient moisture. Shi et al. examined several encapsulation schemes for perovskite films and devices by probing volatile products with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (see the Perspective by Juarez-Perez and Haro). Pressure-tight polymer/glass stack encapsulation was effective in suppressing gas transfer and allowed solar cells containing methylammonium to pass harsh moisture and thermal cycling tests. Science , this issue p. eaba2412 ; see also p. 1309