Chinese research team sets new solar cell efficiency record
A Chinese research team has achieved a new world record for the efficiency of perovskite-organic tandem solar cells. The new technology shows potential for a range of applications.
Chinese researchers have achieved a breakthrough in the development of perovskite-organic tandem solar cells. A team from the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, led by academician Li Yongfang and researcher Meng Lei, has boosted the stable power conversion efficiency of this technology to 28.04 percent, surpassing the previous world record for similar devices.
Traditional single-junction solar cells, such as silicon-based panels, use a single light-absorbing material, limiting their ability to efficiently utilize the full solar spectrum. The developed tandem structure combines two different light-absorbing materials, perovskite and an organic compound, which can absorb sunlight at different wavelengths more effectively. Theoretically, this allows for higher power conversion efficiency.
The new solar cell technology also offers advantages such as being thin, lightweight, and flexible. These characteristics open doors for new applications where weight and size are critical factors. Potential uses include building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), portable energy systems, wearable electronics, drones, and space-based power generation.
The research addressed previous challenges with the technology, such as performance degradation and stability issues. The team introduced a novel additive molecule, TDB, which helps control the fabrication process and device operation under illumination. This has significantly improved the stability of the devices. Third-party certification confirms that the devices retain 90% of their initial efficiency after 625 hours of continuous illumination.
If the technology matures for commercial use, it could be applied in areas such as ground construction, transportation, and smart wearable devices. It may also provide reliable energy for satellites and other space missions, supporting China's transition to cleaner energy and sustainable development. The findings were published on July 13 in the international academic journal Nature.