Publication date: 21st July 2025
The solution-based fabrication of reproducible, high-quality lead iodide perovskite films demands a detailed understanding of the crystallization dynamics. This dynamic is primarily determined by the precursor solution chemistry and processing conditions. We conducted a systematic in-situ study of the critical pre-crystallization phase to elucidate the formation mechanism of perovskite films from both conventional PbI2 based and lead acetate-based precursor solutions. Using UV absorption spectroscopy during spin coating allows us to track the evolution of iodoplumbate complexes and a solvated pre-crystalline phase (PDS) present in the precursor solution. When using conventional precursor solutions, this PDS phase is proportional to the precursor concentration, even during spin coating. Tested additives influencing crystallization dynamics have no effect on this early evolution of the PDS phase. However, this evolution during film formation differs when using lead acetate-based precursors. This key difference offers an explanation for the superior, highly oriented, and pinhole-free films achieved via the lead acetate route.