Cation Dynamics as Structure Explorer in Hybrid Perovskites – the Case of MAPbI3

Hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites exhibit remarkable potential as cost-effective and high-efficiency materials for photovoltaic applications. Their exceptional chemical tunability opens further routes for optimizing their optical and electronic properties through structural engineering. Nevertheless, the extraordinary softness of the lattice, stemming from its interconnected organic-inorganic composition, unveils formidable challenges in their structural characterization. Here, by focusing on the quintessential methylammonium lead triiodide, MAPbI3, we combine first-principles modeling with high-resolution neutron scattering data to identify the key stationary points on its shallow potential energy landscape. This combined experimental and computational approach enables us to benchmark the performance of a collection of semi-local exchange-correlation functionals and to track the local distortions of the perovskite framework, hallmarked by the inelastic neutron scattering response of the organic cation. By conducting a thorough examination of structural distortions, we introduce the IKUR-PVP-1 structural dataset. This dataset contains nine mechanically stable structural models, each manifesting a distinct vibrational response. IKUR-PVP-1 constitutes a valuable resource for assessing the thermal behavior in the low-temperature perovskite phase. In addition, it paves the way for the development of accurate force fields, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between structure and dynamics in MAPbI3 and related hybrid perovskites.