There are indeed several promising new technologies being developed to improve the durability of perovskite solar panels, addressing one of the main challenges that currently hinder their widespread adoption.
Key Advances in Improving Durability of Perovskite Solar Panels
1. Nanoparticle Incorporation (Alumina Nanoparticles)
Research led by the University of Surrey has demonstrated that embedding alumina (Al₂O₃) nanoparticles within perovskite solar cells significantly enhances their lifespan and stability. This modification helps trap iodine within the cell, preventing iodine leakage which is a major cause of material degradation. Tests under extreme heat and humidity showed that these alumina-enhanced cells maintained high performance for over two months (1,530 hours), a tenfold improvement compared to cells without the nanoparticles which lasted about 160 hours.
2. Surface Functionalization with Chemical Barriers
Scientists at Northwestern University developed a method involving surface functionalization using a chemical compound called 5-ammonium valeric acid iodide (5-AVAI). This enables uniform growth of an aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) layer via atomic layer deposition, creating a robust barrier that suppresses halide migration. Halide migration is a key factor in the instability and degradation of perovskite solar cells. This barrier improves both stability and efficiency, making the cells more durable and commercially viable.
3. Chemistry Modification and Alternative Perovskite Materials
Researchers are exploring modifications to the chemical composition of perovskite layers. For example, adding an iodine reductant to lead-tin perovskite cells helped prevent degradation caused by cyanogen formation, extending the service life by 66% and achieving 23.2% efficiency. Additionally, alternative perovskite materials such as chalcogenide perovskites (e.g., BaZrS-based) are being investigated to improve intrinsic stability.
4. Outdoor Stability and Real-world Testing
Ongoing research funded by the US Department of Energy is focused on understanding degradation mechanisms of perovskite solar cells under real sunlight conditions. This work supports the optimization of new materials and protective layers to improve long-term durability outdoors.
Summary of Technologies Enhancing Durability
| Technology | Description | Impact on Durability |
|---|---|---|
| Alumina (Al₂O₃) Nanoparticles | Embedded nanoparticles trap iodine, preventing leakage | 10x improvement in operational lifespan |
| Surface Functionalization (5-AVAI + Al₂O₃ Layer) | Chemical treatment enabling uniform Al₂O₃ barrier suppressing halide migration | Significantly reduces degradation, enhances stability |
| Chemistry Modifications (Iodine Reductants) | Adding reductants to prevent cyanogen formation and chemical breakdown | Extends service life by 66% |
| Alternative Perovskite Materials | Use of more stable perovskite compositions such as chalcogenides | Potential increase in intrinsic material stability |
| Outdoor and Real-world Testing | Studying degradation in natural sunlight to guide durability improvements | Enables optimization of materials and protective methods |
These advances indicate that perovskite solar technology is moving rapidly toward overcoming its key durability limitations, bringing it closer to commercial viability as a cost-effective, high-efficiency alternative to silicon solar panels.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-any-new-technologies-being-developed-to-improve-the-durability-of-perovskite-solar-panels/
