Perovskite solar cells are emerging as a low-cost and highly favorable alternative to conventional silicon-based photovoltaics. Now reaching a record-high power conversion efficiency of 26.95 %. However, two major challenges currently hinder their commercialization: long-term stability under illumination and the risk of environmental contamination by lead; a third challenge lies ahead – recyclability. This talk addresses these issues head-on, exploring strategies to overcome them and enable the sustainable deployment of perovskite PV technologies.

                  Stability – The stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is governed by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsically, stability is largely determined by the interfaces between the perovskite and the charge-transport layers and electrodes, while the perovskite absorber itself remains stable under dry and reducing atmospheres. Extrinsically, long-term stability requires effective encapsulation to prevent degradation induced by moisture, oxygen, and thermal cycling. This talk will present a low-temperature, hermetic laser-based glass-sealing process that encapsulates the active layers under a dry, inert atmosphere, providing robust protection from external instability factors. Experimental data from highly durable devices will be shown, demonstrating extrapolated operational lifetimes exceeding 2500 h under AM 1.5G continuous illumination.

                  Lead sequestration – The most efficient perovskite solar cells rely on lead-based absorbers. These lead-containing compounds are water-soluble and, therefore, can cause harm to the environment in the event of a leak. This talk will present a strategy based on highly reactive scavenging species that, upon exposure to humidity, trigger the rapid conversion of perovskite-derived lead into water-insoluble compounds. A novel, low-cost inorganic lead-capturing layer with a sequestration efficiency exceeding 99 % will be introduced. Combined with glass encapsulation, this approach aims to ensure compliance with stringent environmental regulations related to lead.

                  Circularity – In perovskite solar modules, the transparent conducting oxide (TCO)/glass substrates represent the most valuable components. To enable circularity and reduce lifecycle costs, it should be possible to dismantle the module at end-of-life, remove the aged active layers, and re-apply fresh ones. This can be achieved through a recently developed de-sealing process that allows the glass-encapsulated device to be opened, providing direct access to the functional layers. After refurbishment, the module can be re-sealed using the laser-assisted glass encapsulation process, which enables a renewed operational lifetime and promotes the true closed-loop use of materials.