New molecules are boosting performance in more efficient and stable perovskite solar cells听
Listen now: breakthrough solar cell materials revealed!
Solar panels made of silicon have long dominated the renewable energy market, but a new contender 鈥� perovskite solar cells (PSCs) 鈥� could soon rival their performance. Perovskite materials, named after their crystal structure, are highly efficient at converting sunlight into electricity and can be produced at a lower cost than traditional solar panels. However, making PSCs stable and durable remains a major hurdle in their mass production.听听
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A team of researchers from Khalifa University鈥檚 Center for Catalysis and Separation (CeCaS) thinks a key part of the puzzle is the development of hole-transporting materials (HTMs): organic compounds that help move electrical charge efficiently within the solar cell while preventing degradation over time.听听
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Dr. Shakil Afraj, Dr. Marwa Abd-Ella and Dr. Ahmed Abdelhady collaborated with researchers from National Central University, Taiwan, to investigate these materials. They published their review in .听听
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HTMs play a crucial role in PSCs by helping extract positive charges (holes) generated when sunlight hits the perovskite layer. HTMs are already widely used but come with drawbacks, including high production costs, limited stability, and the need for chemical additives (dopants) that can accelerate degradation. New organic molecules with heterocyclic and heteropolycyclic structures 鈥� chemical frameworks that improve charge transport, increase thermal stability, and enhance the long-term durability of PSCs 鈥� are now being designed.听听
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鈥淥rganic chemistry is giving us powerful new tools to enhance perovskite solar cells. By designing better hole-transporting materials, we can improve efficiency, stability, and ultimately make these solar cells ready for commercial use.鈥�
Dr. Ahmed Abdelhady, Assistant Professor, Khalifa University.
By modifying the molecular structure of HTMs, researchers are tackling the main challenges in perovskite solar cell performance. New HTMs are being engineered with stronger molecular structures that resist breakdown at high temperatures, better alignment of energy levels to reduce energy loss and hydrophobic properties to prevent moisture damage, a common cause of solar cell degradation. These advances are leading to higher-performing, longer-lasting solar cells that could help PSCs reach commercial viability faster.听听
Recent breakthroughs have pushed PSC efficiency beyond 26 percent, making them competitive with silicon-based solar panels. But the Khalifa University research team says stability remains the final hurdle before large-scale production can begin. By focusing on organic chemistry innovations, materials can be developed that not only improve performance but also ensure PSCs can withstand real-world conditions. If successful, perovskite solar cells could revolutionize the renewable energy industry, providing a cheaper, more efficient alternative to current solar technologies.听听
Jade Sterling
Science Writer
