According to a report released by the Physicist Organization Network on May 29th, a groundbreaking study led by Rafael Verduzzi from Rice University and Angliqui Gomes from Penn State University has introduced a new type of solar cell based on bulk copolymers. These self-assembling organic materials can autonomously form distinct layers, offering a promising alternative to traditional photovoltaic systems. Although the current photoelectric conversion efficiency of this new design is only 3%, it still outperforms other polymer-based solar cells. Researchers believe this innovation could open up an entirely new area of research in solar energy technology. The findings were recently published in the journal *Nano Express*.
Verduz pointed out that while commercial silicon-based solar cells currently achieve around 20% efficiency, with lab models reaching up to 25%, scientists have long been exploring polymer-based alternatives due to their potential for lower production costs. However, progress in this field has been slow. A few years ago, a polymer-polyfullerene blend achieved 10% efficiency, but polyfullerene proved difficult to work with, limiting its practical application.
"In theory, bulk copolymers hold great promise for organic solar cells," Verduz explained. "However, very few researchers are using high-mass copolymers to create efficient photovoltaic devices. We believe that with the right materials and proper assembly conditions, we can develop highly efficient solar cells."
The team at Rice University discovered that a specific bulk copolymer, P3HT-b-PFTBT, can self-organize into 16 nm-wide bands. What caught the researchers' attention was the polymer's natural tendency to align perpendicular to the glass surface. They successfully fabricated the material on a glass/indium tin oxide (ITO) substrate at 165°C. The copolymer was then placed on one end of a device developed by Penn State researchers, with a thin layer of aluminum added on the opposite side. This setup created a clear electron transport path from top to bottom electrode.
Looking ahead, the researchers plan to explore other bulk copolymers and refine their structural control to enhance photon absorption and electricity generation. For now, they will focus on improving the performance of these new solar cells, as better efficiency is essential to addressing other challenges like stability.
Verduz emphasized that while solar cells can be easily encapsulated to protect them from moisture and air, UV protection remains a challenge. "You can't avoid exposing them to sunlight, so protecting them from UV rays is tricky," he said.
The team is confident that once they improve the performance of these copolymer-based solar cells, they will find viable long-term applications. (Liu Xia)
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