Climate Insider Brief:
- Introduced in 2009, perovskite solar cells marked a breakthrough in photovoltaic research due to their exceptional light-absorbing capabilities using materials like methylammonium lead bromide and methylammonium lead iodide.
- Researchers, including Erkan Aydin and Stefaan De Wolf from KAUST, are exploring the potential of combining perovskites with conventional silicon solar cells.
- This integration holds promise for future solar technology by leveraging the benefits of both materials, aiming to transition from laboratory prototypes to commercially scalable products.
Perovskite-based solar cells, emerging in 2009, marked a significant milestone in photovoltaic research, owing to their commendable light-absorbing capabilities with methylammonium lead bromide and methylammonium lead iodide. These materials, collectively known as lead halide perovskites or simply perovskites, initiated a new avenue in solar technology, despite their initial modest efficiency.
Presently, the integration of perovskites with conventional silicon solar cells holds promise for future solar technology. Researchers like Erkan Aydin, Stefaan De Wolf, and their team from KAUST have explored the potential of combining these technologies, envisioning their transition from laboratory prototypes to commercially scalable products.
The appeal of perovskites lies in their ability to be synthesized at low temperatures and easily deposited on various surfaces, including flexible ones. This characteristic renders them lighter, more adaptable, and potentially cost-effective compared to silicon panels. Aydin highlights the synergy between perovskite and silicon cells in tandem configurations, enabling better sunlight utilization by mitigating losses that aren’t converted to electrical charge.
Advancements in tandem solar-cell fabrication have been noted, enhancing size and power-conversion efficiency. However, commercial viability necessitates addressing several challenges. The topography of silicon surfaces affects perovskite deposition, with spin coating being the predominant method in laboratories. Nonetheless, its scalability and material wastage pose hurdles. Alternative approaches like slot-die coating and physical vapor deposition are under scrutiny.
Moisture, heat, and light hasten the degradation of perovskite subcells, necessitating focused efforts. Accelerated aging and real environment tests are conducted to assess the reliability and lifetime of perovskite/silicon modules. Aydin emphasizes the imperative of enhancing perovskite subcell reliability for long-term stability.
Although proof-of-concept tandem modules exist, practical challenges impede their commercialization timeline. Uncertainty looms over when perovskite/silicon tandems will attain market-grade efficiency. Nevertheless, the development of efficient commercial solar cells remains crucial for addressing escalating energy demands while curbing environmental impact.
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SOURCE: EurekAlert
Featured Image: Credit: EurekAlert
