Perovskite solar cells with integrated photocatalysis: materials innovations and application potentials

Abstract Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have emerged as a revolutionary technology in photovoltaics (PVs) due to their high-power conversion efficiency and low fabrication costs. Concurrently, photocatalysis has gained significant attention for environmental remediation and solar fuel generation. Integrating photocatalytic (PC) functionality into PSCs presents a unique opportunity to develop dual-functional devices that harness solar energy for both electricity generation and chemical transformations. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the principles, materials, architectures, and applications of perovskite-based dual-functional devices. The fundamental mechanisms of PV and PC processes in perovskite materials are discussed, highlighting the synergies that enable their integration. The criteria for materials selection are explored, emphasizing the importance of balancing PV efficiency and PC activity. Various innovative device architectures and integration strategies are examined, including layer-by-layer approaches and hybrid structures. The performance enhancement techniques, such as passivation strategies, light management, and charge transport improvements, are reviewed to address the challenges of dual-functionality. Advanced in situ and operando characterization methods are detailed, providing insights into real-time performance and degradation mechanisms. The review also covers practical applications, showcasing case studies in environmental remediation, hydrogen production, and CO 2 reduction. The comparative analyses highlight the advantages and limitations of these dual-functional devices in various contexts. The key challenges, including stability issues, optimization trade-offs, and scalability, are critically evaluated, along with potential solutions and mitigation strategies. Emerging trends and future perspectives are discussed, focusing on novel perovskite compositions, integration with other renewable technologies, and pathways to commercialization. This review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the current state and future prospects of PSCs with integrated PC functionality, offering valuable insights for researchers and developers in the field.