Scientists Achieve Breakthrough That Could Transform Solar Panel Technology: “Establishes a Record Efficiency”
A recent study highlights a significant advancement in solar panel manufacturing that could lead to next-generation solar technology. According to Tech Xplore, researchers have discovered that by adding the chemical compound tetramethylammonium chloride (TMACL) to a stannic oxide (SnO2) precursor colloidal solution, they can prevent the electron transport layer from crystallizing during the printing process.
Perovskite solar cells, known for their enhanced efficiency and lower production costs compared to traditional methods, have become the industry standard through printing techniques. However, a challenge arises during the printing process when perovskite tends to crystallize. The addition of TMACL serves to “anchor the SnO2 nanoparticles,” resulting in a 32% reduction in surface roughness of the coated film and a minimization of pinhole defects, as reported by Tech Xplore.
The Chinese Academy of Sciences noted that the nitrogen atoms in TMACL create chemical bonds with lead ions in the perovskite layer, effectively acting as a “molecular glue” that secures the electron transport layer to the perovskite absorber. The study demonstrated that a sample measuring 57.2 square centimeters (8.9 square inches) treated with this coating process achieved a remarkable “conversion efficiency of 22.76%, with a certified efficiency of 21.60%.” After 1,500 hours of operation, the sample maintained 93.25% of its efficiency.
Professors Yang Dong and Liu Shengzhong from the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics published their findings in the journal Joule, stating: “This strategy establishes a record efficiency for perovskite solar modules, paving the way for their industrialization.” Advancements in manufacturing efficiency can lead to cost benefits for consumers. As the price of solar panels continues to decrease, further reductions could make solar installations more accessible for homeowners.
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While there is no established timeline for when the molecular glue method will be available for mass production, Liu remarked, “Our study lowers the barriers to large-scale manufacturing and paves the way for the commercial deployment of high-performance perovskite solar technologies.”
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