Germany and Switzerland team improves all-perovskite solar cell to 27.3%, targets 30%
Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, Universität Potsdam, and Empa developed a solar cell with 27.3% efficiency using a graphene oxide and self-assembled monolayer bilayer, targeting 30% efficiency.
Researchers in Germany and Switzerland have advanced solar technology by achieving a 27.3% efficiency in all-perovskite solar cells. This marks one of the highest efficiencies reported for this type of solar cell.
The collaboration involved Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, Universität Potsdam, and Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa). They utilized a bilayer structure composed of graphene oxide (GO) and a self-assembled monolayer (SAM), which together outperform the individual materials. This innovation increased the solar cell's efficiency from 23.6% to 25.1%.
Further improvements were made by adjusting the bandgap of the middle perovskite layer, enhancing its sunlight absorption and boosting efficiency to 27.3%. The solar cell maintained 90% of its initial power output after 770 hours of continuous light exposure, demonstrating enhanced stability compared to previous designs.
The improved efficiency of these solar cells could make clean energy more cost-effective and practical. Enhanced power generation from the same surface area can benefit homeowners, businesses, and cities by maximizing electricity output without expanding installations.
This technology could also be more affordable and easier to manufacture than traditional silicon-based solar cells. Continued advancements in efficiency and stability may accelerate the deployment of cost-effective solar products, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting cleaner energy solutions.
The development focuses on interface engineering, which involves optimizing the layers between different materials within the solar cell. Researchers are exploring ways to further enhance efficiency by reducing charge-transport resistance, improving perovskite quality, and aligning energy levels.
While the technology is still under development, such advancements could influence future solar products, potentially leading to lighter, more versatile, and efficient panels for various applications.
"Our findings highlight the significant potential of SAM-based all-perovskite multi-junctions, moving this promising technology closer to industrial readiness," the researchers stated.
Source: Graphene Feed