perovskite

Perovskite refers to a specific type of crystal structure that can be found in various materials, characterized by the ABX3 formula, where “A” and “B” are cations (positively charged ions) of different sizes, and “X” is an anion (negatively charged ion, often oxygen). The term originated from the mineral calcium titanium oxide, which was named in honor of the Russian mineralogist Lev Perovski.

Perovskite materials are notable for their unique electronic, optical, and structural properties, making them promising candidates for a variety of applications, particularly in the fields of photovoltaics (solar cells), LEDs, and superconductors. Their distinctive crystal structure allows for significant versatility in composition, enabling researchers to engineer perovskite materials for specific functionalities. The increasing interest in perovskite solar cells stems from their high efficiency, low cost, and ease of fabrication compared to traditional silicon-based solar cells.

In summary, perovskite is both a mineral name and a term that encompasses a broader class of materials with a specific crystalline arrangement that exhibit valuable properties for technological innovation.