Characterization of perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3) degradation with the integration of different polymers for increased stability

Abstract Organo-lead halide perovskites, specifically methylammonium lead iodide (CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 ), has grown to be promising material for a wide array of photovoltaic applications. However, perovskite still lacks in its long-term stability and is sensitive to decomposition via moisture. This work investigates the integration of multiple polymer coatings that have the potential to improve the air stability of the perovskite. The investigated polymers include poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), poly vinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and sodium polyacrylate (NaPA). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was able to confirm the morphology of the perovskite and areas of degradation. In addition, X-ray diffraction (XRD) study reveals that the perovskite coated in the PMMA remains the most efficient polymer coating among the rest of the studied polymers.