Synchrotron X-ray-based Microstructural Characterisation of Perovskite Solar Cells

Perovskite photovoltaics hold great promise for renewable energy due to the high efficiency of perovskite solar cells in converting solar energy into electricity. Research into perovskite solar cells is increasingly focused on overcoming obstacles facing the commercialisation of perovskite photovoltaic technology. In this thesis, a range of synchrotron-based X-ray scattering techniques have been applied to provide a deeper understanding of the fundamental microstructural properties of perovskite materials. An in-depth understanding of the microstructure of layered hybrid perovskite materials with enhanced intrinsic stability is described, along with the results of in situ studies of film formation mechanisms. The work presented in this thesis also provides guidance for the reliable characterisation of perovskite film microstructure, paving the way towards the large-scale commercial deployment of perovskite solar cells.