Suppressing the Oxygen/Moisture Effect with 9‐Fluorenylmethyl Carbazate to Facilitate Ambient‐Fabrication of Stable Perovskite Solar Cells

Why It Matters

The breakthrough enables low‑cost, large‑scale manufacturing of high‑efficiency perovskite modules while dramatically improving long‑term stability, a critical hurdle for commercial adoption.

Key Takeaways

• 9FC added to PbI2 precursor
• Multidentate chelation improves crystal orientation
• Reduces I− oxidation to I2
• Achieves 24.83% PCE
• Unencapsulated cells retain 78% after 2280 h

Pulse Analysis

Ambient‑air processing has long been a bottleneck for perovskite photovoltaics, where exposure to oxygen and moisture rapidly degrades film quality and device performance. By incorporating 9‑fluorenylmethyl carbazate (9FC) directly into the PbI2 precursor, researchers create a protective chemical environment that tolerates humidity without the need for glove‑box conditions. This approach cuts production complexity and cost, aligning perovskite technology with the manufacturing realities of silicon‑based solar panels.

The functional groups of 9FC—carbonyl and hydrazino—act as multidentate ligands, binding to lead and iodide ions to modulate nucleation and growth. The resulting perovskite layer exhibits larger grains, a preferred crystal orientation, and a markedly lower defect density. Quartz crystal microbalance tests confirm enhanced humidity resistance, while the hydrazino moiety actively suppresses the oxidation of I⁻ to I₂, preserving the stoichiometry essential for high open‑circuit voltage. These material‑level improvements translate directly into superior optoelectronic properties.

Performance data underscore the commercial relevance: 9FC‑doped cells reach a power conversion efficiency of 24.83%, rivaling the best laboratory‑scale perovskites, and maintain 78% of their initial efficiency after more than 2,200 hours in uncontrolled ambient conditions. Such stability without encapsulation addresses one of the most cited reliability concerns, paving the way for roll‑to‑roll coating and large‑area module fabrication. As the solar industry seeks cost‑effective, high‑efficiency alternatives, this chemistry could accelerate the transition from niche research to mainstream market deployment.