Towards simplifying the device structure of high-performance perovskite solar cells

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are considered one of the most promising next-generation examples of high-tech photovoltaic energy converters, as they possess an unprecedented power conversion efficiency with low cost. A typical high-performance PSC generally contains a perovskite active layer sandwiched between an electron-transport layer (ETL) and a hole-transport layer (HTL). The ETL and HTL contribute to the charge extraction in the PSC. However, these additional two layers complicate the manufacturing process and raise the cost. To extend this technology for commercialization, it is highly desired that the structure of PSCs is further simplified without sacrificing their photovoltaic performances. Thus, ETL-free or/and HTL-free PSCs are developed and attract more and more interest. Herein, the commonly used methods in reducing the defect density and optimizing the energy levels in conventional PSCs in order to simplify their structures are summarized. Then, the development of diverse ETL-free or/and HTL-free PSCs is discussed, with the PSCs classified, including their working principles, implemented technologies, remaining challenges, and future perspectives. The aim is to redirect the way toward low-cost and high-performance PSCs with the simplest possible architecture.