Manipulation of Perovskite Crystallization Kinetics via Lewis Base Additives

The Lewis acid-base adduct approach has been widely used to form high-crystalline perovskite films, but the complicated crystallization pathway and underlying film formation mechanism are still ambiguous. Here, the detailed crystallization process of perovskites manipulated by Lewis base additives has been revealed by in situ X-ray scattering measurements. Through monitoring the film formation process, two distinct crystal growth stages have been definitely recognized: i) an intermediate phase-dominated stage; and ii) a phase transformation stage from intermediates to crystalline perovskite phase. Incorporating Lewis base additives significantly prolongs the duration of stage 1 and induces a postponed phase transformation pathway, which could be responsible for retardant crystallization kinetics. Based on a series of experimental results and theoretical calculations, it is indicated that the manipulation of perovskite crystallization pathway is a result of the modulated molecular interactions between Lewis base additives and solution precursors. Owing to the retardant crystallization kinetics, enhanced-quality perovskite films with reduced defect density and improved optoelectronic properties, as well as optimized photovoltaic performance have been demonstrated. This work provides in-depth understanding with respect to perovskite crystallization pathway modulated by Lewis base additives and perceptive guidelines for precise regulation of crystallization kinetics of perovskite film toward high performance.

Automated summary

The Lewis acid-base adduct approach has been widely used for high-crystalline perovskite films, but the detailed crystallization process manipulated by Lewis base additives has revealed two distinct crystal growth stages, resulting in retardant crystallization kinetics and improved optoelectronic properties. This provides insight into the precise regulation of perovskite film crystallization kinetics towards high performance.