Windows with translucent cells can harvest solar energy

Scientists at the Korea Energy Research Institute (KIER) announced a significant breakthrough in the development of translucent perovskite solar cells. It has the potential to turn into energy-producing windows. This semiconductor mineral used in crystal structure revolutionized the field of solar energy.

In the latest tests conducted at KIER, semi-transparent perovskite solar cells showed a significant increase in energy conversion, reaching 21.68% efficiency, making them the world’s most efficient perovskite solar cells among models using transparent. electrodes.

According to researchers, this is a new world record in terms of technology. It achieved over 99% efficiency for up to 240 hours of operation. The technique of replacing the metal electrodes of conventional solar cells with transparent and translucent electrodes was previously developed at KIER;

Solar energy production in windows

Solar panels, which are considered the main means of utilizing solar energy in the transition from fossil fuels, are not always easy to obtain, and when available, they are expensive and inefficient. For this reason, materials that are more interactive with the environment, such as perovskite solar cells, are being studied.

The idea is that these translucent voltaic cells can be turned into windows and glass panels in buildings, generating electrical energy almost imperceptibly while allowing natural light in. However, for reasons unknown until this study, translucent devices showed lower charge transfer and stability than their opaque counterparts.

While there’s still a lot to do before our sun-soaked windows make us energy sustainable, The seemingly small innovation brought by the South Koreans represents a decisive step in the spread of solar energy.

What prevented solar energy production in translucent cells?

To overcome problems encountered in initial tests (low charge transport rates and stability), the researchers closely evaluated the material using electro-optical analysis and atomic-level computational science.

Analysis showed The problem is caused by lithium ions The hole is added to increase electrical conductivity in the so-called transport layer. This material spreads over a layer of metallic oxides that act as protection, destroying its main properties.

The solution found was to convert lithium ions into lithium oxide, a more stable chemical form that is less likely to react with other materials. The study concludes that the discovery shows that lithium oxide, previously considered just a byproduct of the reaction, “can play a crucial role in improving the efficiency and stability” of translucent photovoltaic cells.

At TecMundo, always stay up to date with the latest news on clean energy production on the planet. If you wish, also understand what Brazil needs to become a leader in solar energy production.