Revolutionizing Solar Cells: DMAFo Additive Boosts Efficiency

• Revolutionary new method for manufacturing perovskite solar cells achieves high efficiency and improved stability, paving the way for a potential game-changer in solar energy technology.

Researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and University of Colorado have developed a new method to manufacture perovskite solar cells. The challenge of coating the semiconductor onto glass plates has been addressed by adding dimethylammonium formate (DMAFo) to the perovskite solution, allowing the coating process to take place in ambient air rather than a nitrogen-filled box.

The perovskite cells made with the DMAFo additive achieved an efficiency of nearly 25%, comparable to the current efficiency record for perovskite cells. These cells also showed improved stability, retaining 90% of their efficiency after exposure to LED light for 700 hours. While further testing is needed to determine long-term stability, researchers are optimistic about the potential for perovskite cells to match the performance and longevity of commercial silicon panels. Additionally, the team is working on developing tandem cells with an efficiency of over 30% and a similar operational lifetime as silicon panels.

How has a new method improved efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells?

• The new method developed by researchers involves adding dimethylammonium formate (DMAFo) to the perovskite solution, allowing for the coating process to occur in ambient air rather than a nitrogen-filled box.
• Perovskite solar cells manufactured using the DMAFo additive have achieved an efficiency of nearly 25%, which is comparable to the current efficiency record for perovskite cells.
• These cells have also shown improved stability, retaining 90% of their efficiency after exposure to LED light for 700 hours.
• Researchers are optimistic about the potential for perovskite cells to match the performance and longevity of commercial silicon panels, with further testing needed to determine long-term stability.
• The team is also working on developing tandem cells with an efficiency of over 30% and a similar operational lifetime as silicon panels.