What are organic solar cells?

 Chinese scientists have developed a new technique that could make organic solar cells more efficient and stable. The breakthrough may help bring this type of solar technology closer to large-scale commercial use.

The research team was led by Professor Ji Ze Yi at the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

What are organic solar cells?

Organic solar cells use carbon-based materials instead of silicon to convert sunlight into electricity. They can be made at a relatively low cost and are lightweight, flexible and suitable for use over large areas.

However these solar cells face a major challenge. Long exposure to sunlight and heat can weaken the thin layers of materials inside them. Over time these layers may begin to separate from the surface, reducing the cells’ performance and lifespan.

How does the new technique work?

To solve this problem, researchers introduced a thin layer of indium chloride between the electrode and the hole transport layer.

This layer was created using a vacuum based process.

The new method strengthens the connection between these layers and helps keep them firmly attached to the surface. According to the researchers the technique creates a stronger molecular network, making the internal structure of organic solar cells more stable.

This could help the cells maintain their performance for a longer time.

A step towards better solar technology

The findings could support the development of organic solar cells that are both more efficient and more durable. Improving their stability is an important step towards making this technology more practical for commercial applications.

The study was published in the scientific journal Joule on October 21. It presents a promising approach to overcoming one of the key challenges facing organic solar cells and could help advance their use on a larger scale.