Polymers for Perovskite Solar Cells

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are recognized as one of the most promising next-generation photovoltaics, primarily due to their exceptional power conversion efficiency, ease of processing, and cost-effectiveness. Despite these advantages, challenges remain in achieving high-quality films and ensuring the long-term stability of PSCs, which hinder their widespread commercialization. Polymers, characterized by multifunctional groups, superior thermal stability, flexible long chains, and cross-linking capabilities, offer significant potential to enhance the performance and reliability of PSCs. This review comprehensively presents the multifaceted roles that polymers play in PSCs. Through carefully controlling interactions between polymers and perovskites, crucial aspects such as film crystallization kinetics, carrier transport process, ion migration issues, and mechanical properties under bending can be effectively regulated to maximize the device performance. Furthermore, the hydrophobic properties and strong chelated cross-linking networks of polymers significantly enhance the stability of PSCs under various environmental conditions while effectively mitigating lead leakage, thereby addressing environmental concerns and long-term durability. Moreover, this Perspective identifies potential pathways for further advancing polymer-based strategies in PSC applications.