UK team makes longer-lasting perovskite solar cells
UK scientists have found a way to make perovskite solar cells not only highly efficient but also remarkably stable, addressing one of the main challenges holding the technology back from widespread use.
Led by Thomas Anthopoulos from the University of Manchester, the research team achieved this by fine-tuning the molecules that coat the perovskite surfaces. They utilised specially designed small molecules, known as amidinium ligands, which act like a molecular 'glue' to hold the perovskite structure together.
"This could overcome one of the last major hurdles facing perovskite solar cell technology and ensure it lasts long enough for large-scale deployment," said Anthopoulos.
The study, 'Multivalent ligands regulate dimensional engineering for inverted perovskite solar modules' published in the journal Science, focuses on understanding how the chemical structure of the amidinium ligand controls the formation of the low-dimensional perovskite phase atop the conventional three-dimensional perovskite.
These highly ordered layers form a smooth, stable protective layer that prevents tiny defects from forming, allowing electrical charges to flow more efficiently and preventing the devices from degrading under heat or light.
Using this approach, the team developed solar cells with a power conversion efficiency of 25.4 percent, while maintaining over 95 percent of performance after 1,100 hours of continuous operation at 85°C under full sunlight.
Anthopoulos said: “The amidinium ligands we’ve developed, and the new knowledge gained, allow the controlled growth of high-quality, stable perovskite layers. This could overcome one of the last major hurdles facing perovskite solar cell technology and ensure it lasts long enough for large-scale deployment.”
