Iodine revealed to be killer species that destroys tin-based perovskites

The poor stability of tin-based perovskites under ambient conditions has limited the progress of this promising type of solar cell. Now, a study by researchers at Imperial College London and the University of Bath has shed light on the degradation mechanisms that affect these devices – oxygen and moisture induce the formation of iodine, an aggressive species that further poisons the perovskites. Moreover, researchers identified materials that prevent oxidation and could inspire new solar cell designs that are greener and more stable.¹