Canon Innovates Durable, Efficient Material for Solar Cells

• Canon's new material boosts perovskite solar cell efficiency and durability, promising stable mass production and reduced maintenance, thanks to innovative tech adapted from laser printers.

Canon has unveiled a new high-performance material designed to enhance the efficiency and longevity of perovskite solar cells. This innovation addresses two critical issues: preventing halogen ion movement that leads to deterioration and facilitating charge movement within the perovskite layer. In collaboration with Toin University of Yokohama, Canon demonstrated that applying this material between the perovskite and HTL layers maintains high photoelectric conversion efficiency and increases durability, enabling stable mass production and reducing maintenance needs.

The development leverages Canon's expertise in producing core components for multifunction devices and laser printers, where similar layer structures are used. By adapting materials technology from photosensitive drums, which share structural similarities with perovskite solar cells, Canon's engineers created a material that enhances solar cell durability without compromising efficiency. This breakthrough underscores Canon's commitment to in-house innovation and its potential impact on the solar energy sector.

How does Canon's new material improve perovskite solar cell efficiency and durability?

• Prevention of Halogen Ion Movement: Canon's new material effectively prevents the movement of halogen ions within the perovskite layer. This is crucial because the migration of these ions can lead to the degradation of the solar cell's structure over time, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. By stabilizing the ion movement, the material helps maintain the structural integrity of the solar cells, thereby enhancing their durability.
• Facilitation of Charge Movement: The material also facilitates efficient charge movement within the perovskite layer. Efficient charge transport is essential for high photoelectric conversion efficiency, as it ensures that the generated electrical charges are effectively collected and utilized. This improvement in charge movement directly contributes to higher overall efficiency of the solar cells.
• Layer Integration: By applying the material between the perovskite and hole transport layer (HTL), Canon has optimized the interface for better performance. This strategic placement helps in maintaining a high level of photoelectric conversion efficiency, which is critical for the practical application of perovskite solar cells in the energy market.
• Enhanced Durability: The new material significantly increases the durability of perovskite solar cells. This is achieved by addressing the common degradation pathways that typically affect these cells, such as environmental factors and internal chemical reactions. Enhanced durability means that the solar cells can have a longer operational life, reducing the frequency of replacements and maintenance.
• Stable Mass Production: The innovation supports stable mass production of perovskite solar cells. By ensuring consistent performance and durability, the material allows for large-scale manufacturing without the variability that often plagues new solar technologies. This stability is crucial for the commercial viability and widespread adoption of perovskite solar cells.
• Reduced Maintenance Needs: With increased durability and efficiency, the new material reduces the maintenance needs of perovskite solar cells. This is particularly beneficial for large solar installations where maintenance can be costly and logistically challenging. Lower maintenance requirements translate to reduced operational costs over the lifespan of the solar cells.
• Leveraging Canon's Expertise: The development of this material leverages Canon's extensive expertise in materials technology, particularly from its experience with photosensitive drums in laser printers. This cross-industry application of knowledge highlights Canon's innovative approach and its ability to adapt existing technologies to new challenges in the renewable energy sector.
• Potential Impact on Solar Energy Sector: Canon's breakthrough has the potential to significantly impact the solar energy sector by making perovskite solar cells more competitive with traditional silicon-based cells. The improvements in efficiency, durability, and production stability could accelerate the adoption of perovskite technology, contributing to the growth of renewable energy sources globally.