Large-area perovskite films for PV applications: A perspective from nucleation and crystallization

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted significant research interest due to the rapid rise in efficiency. However, a large efficiency gap still exists between laboratory-based small devices and industrial-oriented large-scale modules. One of the main reasons for the efficiency losses is the degraded quality and morphology of the deposited large-area films, which is closely associated with crystallization processes. In this review, we discuss the nucleation and crystallization processes in solution and vapor-based up-scaling deposition methods for large-area perovskite films. We review recent scientific achievements and technical developments that have been made in the field of large-area cells. We present the existing problems that limit the performance of large devices and extensively discuss the key influencing parameters from the perspective of nucleation and crystallization over large areas. This review highlights the importance of crystallization control in up-scaling fabrications and presents promising strategies towards large-area perovskite-based optoelectronic devices.