Acetate-based ionic liquid engineering for efficient and stable CsPbI2Br perovskite solar cells with an unprecedented fill factor over 83%

The current investigation addresses the persistent challenge of poor ambient stability exhibited by inorganic lead halide perovskites, primarily stemming from intrinsic phase transitions and the presence of defect states. This area of research has been considerably unexplored thus far. On the other hand, the notable effects of ionic liquids (ILs) in improving both stability and efficiency of perovskite photovoltaics have been substantial. In line with these developments, this study endeavors to synergize these two critical domains by introducing an acetate (Ac)-based IL into the inorganic perovskite precursor solution to tailor the crystal growth and charge carrier dynamics in CsPbI2Br films, resulting in prolonged stability and enhanced photovoltaic performance. The integration of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate (BMIMAc) can indeed accelerate the crystallization of the inorganic perovskite film by interacting the Ac− anion with uncoordinated Pb2+ cation in CsPbI2Br. This interaction prompts the formation of smaller grains, which in turn inhibits the creation of non-photoactive phases. Moreover, the presence of BMIMAc as a passivation agent introduces significant defect-healing capabilities, eliminated charge recombination, and increased hydrophobicity. This work endeavors to pave the way for high-efficiency, enduring, and more robust inorganic PSCs through the integration of innovative materials and advanced understanding of fundamental principles, resulting uniform and dense perovskite film. Accordingly, 1.1 mol% BMIMAc-passivated device enables an impressive efficiency of 15.6% with an unprecedented fill factor (FF) exceeding 83%. Remarkably, even after undergoing extended light-soaking for 600 h, the BMIMAc-passivated device retains approximately 85% of its initial efficiency.