Close-loop recycling of perovskite solar cells through dissolution-recrystallization of perovskite by butylamine

Organic-inorganic lead halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have achieved impressive progress in both conversion efficiency and stability. However, the leakage risk of toxic lead in the fabrication and service of PSCs hinders their commercialization; hence, the management of lead is imperative. Here, we report a close-loop recycling strategy to collect the key materials involved in devices with butylamine (BA), even regenerating solar cells with recycled materials including perovskite absorbers and NiO-coated ITO glass substrates. The regenerated devices show performance equivalent to that of fresh ones and nearly 18% PCE for the champions. The total recycling yield of lead is more than 98.9%. The recycling can be attributed to the unique interaction between lead halides and BA. Our strategy could move PSCs toward commercialization by effective close-loop recycling and refabrication of whole PSC devices. The management of lead is crucial for the commercialization of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Feng et al. report an effective and promising strategy to realize close-loop recycling of PSCs that includes recycling of key materials from PSC devices and regeneration of devices, as well as collection of solvents used. The total recycling yield of lead is more than 98.9% when calibrated strictly and conservatively and in theory points toward 100% if all involved solvents can be recycled.