Editing Lead(II) iodide (section)

== Applications ==

Lead iodide is a precursor material in the fabrication of highly efficient [[Perovskite solar cell]]. Typically, a solution of {{chem|Pb|I|2}} in an organic solvent, such as [[dimethylformamide]] or dimethylsulfoxide, is applied over a [[titanium dioxide]] layer by [[spin coating]]. The layer is then treated with a solution of [[methylammonium iodide]] {{chem|C|H|3|N|H|3|I}} and [[Annealing (metallurgy)|annealed]], turning it into the [[double salt]] [[methylammonium lead iodide]] {{chem|C|H|3|N|H|3|Pb|I|3}}, with a [[perovskite]] structure. The reaction changes the film's color from yellow to light brown.<ref name=Dhiaputra/>

{{chem|Pb|I|2}} is also used as a high-energy photon detector for gamma-rays and X-rays, due to its wide band gap which ensures low noise operation.<ref name="patnaik" /><ref name=Shah/><ref name="forn" />

Lead iodide was formerly used as a paint pigment under the name "iodine yellow". It was described by [[Prosper Mérimée]] (1830) as "not yet much known in commerce, is as bright as [[orpiment]] or [[lead(II) chromate|chromate of lead]]. It is thought to be more permanent; but time only can prove its pretension to so essential a quality. It is prepared by precipitating a solution of acetate or nitrate of lead, with potassium iodide: the nitrate produces a more brilliant yellow color."<ref name=Eastaugh/> However, due to the toxicity and instability of the compound it is no longer used as such.<ref name=Eastaugh/> It may still be used in art for [[bronzing]] and in gold-like [[mosaic]] tiles.<ref name="patnaik" />