Unveiling the layer-resolved mechanical landscape of multilayer hybrid perovskite solar cells by statistical nanoindentation
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Perovskite solar cells rely on complex multilayer architectures whose mechanical integrity is increasingly recognized as a critical factor for long-term operational stability. Despite extensive characterization of methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI₃), the mechanical properties of emerging multi cation perovskites within complete device stacks remain poorly understood. In this manuscript, we present a system level mechanical characterization of two perovskite solar cell architectures using depth resolved nanoindentation. By combining continuous stiffness measurements with statistical deconvolution, we isolate the elastic modulus and hardness of individual layers across the full device stack. The approach accurately reproduces reported values for common transport layers and MAPbI₃, demonstrating robustness. We further report, for the first time, the intrinsic mechanical properties of the four cation perovskite CsRbMAFAPb(IBr)₃, which exhibits a similar elastic modulus but substantially higher hardness than MAPbI₃. These results reveal enhanced resistance to mechanical damage in multi cation absorbers and underscore the importance of mechanical design considerations for improving the durability of next generation perovskite solar cells.
Institution: Universidad Rey Juan Carlos
Language: English
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,340
OpenAlex ID: W7166578767