New Strategy Boosts Flexible Solar Cell Efficiency, Durability

• Boosting Solar Power: New Strategy Enhances Flexible Tandem Cells' Efficiency and Durability, Paving the Way for Commercial Breakthroughs.

Scientists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and partners have developed an antisolvent-seeding strategy to enhance the efficiency and durability of flexible tandem solar cells. By improving the adhesion between the perovskite top layer and the copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) bottom layer, they addressed the challenge posed by the rough surface of CIGS, which previously limited the commercial potential of these cells.

The team, led by Prof. YE Jichun, achieved a stabilized efficiency of 24.6% for a flexible monolithic perovskite/CIGS tandem solar cell, with the device maintaining over 90% efficiency after extensive testing. This innovation could significantly advance the commercial application of flexible tandem solar cells.

How does the antisolvent-seeding strategy improve flexible tandem solar cell efficiency and durability?

• Enhances interface quality: The antisolvent-seeding strategy improves the interface between the perovskite and CIGS layers, leading to better charge transfer and reduced recombination losses.
• Promotes uniform crystal growth: It facilitates the formation of a more uniform and defect-free perovskite layer, which is crucial for high efficiency.
• Increases adhesion: By improving the adhesion between layers, the strategy reduces the risk of delamination, enhancing the mechanical stability of the solar cells.
• Reduces surface roughness impact: The approach mitigates the negative effects of the inherent roughness of the CIGS layer, allowing for more effective layer stacking.
• Enhances moisture resistance: Improved layer adhesion and uniformity contribute to better moisture resistance, increasing the durability of the solar cells.
• Supports scalability: The method is compatible with large-scale production processes, making it viable for commercial manufacturing.
• Boosts long-term performance: The strategy contributes to maintaining high efficiency over time, even under prolonged operational conditions.