Perovskite solar cells have attracted considerable attention as next-generation photovoltaics that could replace silicon solar cells, and in particular, in inverted (p–i–n) architectures, the design of the interface between the hole-transport laye...
Perovskite solar cells have attracted considerable attention as next-generation photovoltaics that could replace silicon solar cells, and in particular, in inverted (p–i–n) architectures, the design of the interface between the hole-transport layer and the perovskite absorber is a key determinant of device performance. In this work, to enable more precise interfacial control, we introduce self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) and propose new hole-affinitive organic molecules through rational molecular design and synthesis, aiming to apply them to wide-bandgap inverted perovskite solar cells. By comprehensively analyzing DFT calculations and a broad set of experimental data—including UV–Vis absorption, UPS, contact angle, XRD, SEM, XPS, steady-state PL, front/back TRPL, light-intensity-dependent Voc, SCLC, J–V characteristics, and EQE spectra—we demonstrate that the SAM-based devices simultaneously enhance interfacial dipole formation, defect passivation, and hole transport, leading to improved current density, open-circuit voltage, and fill factor, and ultimately achieving a higher power conversion efficiency than devices employing conventional hole-transport layers.