perovskiiitti

Perovskite is a mineral with the chemical formula CaTiO3. It is named after Russian mineralogist L. A. Perovski. The mineral itself is typically found in metamorphosed limestones and other metamorphic rocks, as well as in some igneous rocks. Its crystal structure is cubic, characterized by a specific arrangement of calcium, titanium, and oxygen atoms. While naturally occurring perovskite is of scientific interest, the term "perovskite" is now more commonly associated with a class of materials that share the same crystal structure, known as perovskite compounds. These synthetic materials have the general formula ABX3, where A and B are cations of different sizes, and X is an anion, typically an oxide or halide.

These synthetic perovskite compounds have garnered significant attention in recent decades due to their diverse and promising properties. For instance, some perovskite oxides exhibit excellent catalytic activity, making them useful in industrial processes like exhaust gas purification. Others possess remarkable thermoelectric properties, capable of converting heat energy directly into electrical energy, or vice versa. However, the most significant advancements have been in the field of perovskite solar cells. Certain halide perovskites have demonstrated rapidly increasing power conversion efficiencies, rivaling and even surpassing established photovoltaic technologies. Their tunable bandgaps, good light absorption, and relatively low manufacturing costs make them a compelling candidate for next-generation solar energy harvesting. Research is ongoing to improve their stability and scalability for widespread commercial adoption.