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New method to drastically improve photoelectric conversion efficiency of high-performance perovskite solar cells
The research team, led by Yang Yang, a Chinese-American professor of materials engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), has developed an innovative method that significantly boosts the photoelectric conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells while also enhancing traditional silicon-based panels. This breakthrough addresses long-standing challenges related to the high cost and environmental impact of rare earth elements used in conventional solar technology.
Silicon-based solar panels are known for their widespread use, but they come with significant drawbacks. The production process involves silica, which is expensive and leads to substantial pollution. In recent years, researchers have been searching for more efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternatives. Perovskite solar cells, with a theoretical efficiency of up to 50%, have emerged as a promising candidate.
After seven months of dedicated work, Yang Yang, alongside postdoctoral researchers Chen Qi and Zhou Huaiping, successfully increased the photoelectric conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells from 3% to 16%. This improvement not only enhances performance but also resolves previous limitations where perovskite panels struggled with balancing area size and efficiency.
Speaking to "World News," Yang Yang explained that traditional methods involved baking two raw materials together, but because they have different boiling points, this process often resulted in uneven layers. This unevenness caused poor electron transfer at the interface, reducing overall efficiency. To solve this, his team used vapor deposition to "steam" one material into another, creating a uniform film on the surface. This technique improved conductivity and performance.
Although the current panel is only one square meter in size, its performance far exceeds that of previous perovskite panels of similar dimensions. Yang Yang expressed his goal to push the efficiency even higher, aiming for 20% in the near future.
With over a decade of experience in solar cell research, Yang Yang emphasized that the search for the most efficient and sustainable energy source remains a top priority. While silicon crystalline solar cells currently achieve around 18% efficiency, their manufacturing process is energy-intensive, and it can take several years to recoup the energy invested. Additionally, the high cost and environmental impact of silica make them less than ideal.
In contrast, perovskite solar cells offer clear advantages. As an artificially synthesized ceramic oxide, perovskite does not face resource depletion issues. Its simple fabrication process also allows for significant cost reductions, making it highly attractive for commercial applications.
The findings of Yang Yang’s team were published in the January 15 issue of the *Journal of the American Chemical Society*, marking an important step forward in the development of next-generation solar technologies.