Shining Light on Perovskites: X-rays Unlock Solar Cell Stability

• Scientists at APS used X-rays to study ion movement in perovskite crystals under UV radiation. Understanding this can improve stability, potentially achieving a 20-30 year solar cell lifetime and outperforming other solar cells.

Scientists at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) have used X-rays to study the movement of ions within perovskite crystals under ultraviolet radiation (UV). Perovskites are a class of materials with potential applications in solar energy harvesting devices and LED displays. The researchers hope to improve the stability of perovskites, as extended exposure to UV can significantly degrade solar cell performance. By understanding the movement of ions within perovskite crystals, scientists can work towards achieving a solar cell lifetime of 20 to 30 years. Perovskite solar cells have the potential to outperform other types of solar cells, with conversion rates of up to 26% compared to 10-15% for commercial multicrystalline silicon solar cells.

The researchers used a technique called nanoprobe X-ray fluorescence (nano-XRF) to directly capture the movement of halide atoms in perovskite materials without damaging them. They found that lower dimensional perovskites showed a clear link between stability and dimensionality. By substituting certain elements and protecting the material with organic molecules, the stability of perovskite-based photovoltaics could be increased. The researchers are continuing to explore approaches to enhance material stability and will benefit from the upgraded APS, which will feature X-ray beams that are up to 500 times brighter when it comes online in spring 2024.

How can scientists improve the stability of perovskite solar cells under UV radiation?

• Researchers at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) have used X-rays to study the movement of ions within perovskite crystals under UV radiation.
• The goal of the research is to improve the stability of perovskite solar cells, as extended exposure to UV can degrade their performance.
• By understanding the movement of ions within perovskite crystals, scientists aim to achieve a solar cell lifetime of 20 to 30 years.
• Perovskite solar cells have the potential to outperform other types of solar cells, with conversion rates of up to 26% compared to 10-15% for commercial multicrystalline silicon solar cells.
• The researchers employed a technique called nanoprobe X-ray fluorescence (nano-XRF) to directly observe the movement of halide atoms in perovskite materials without causing damage.
• The study revealed a clear link between stability and dimensionality in lower dimensional perovskites.
• By substituting certain elements and protecting the material with organic molecules, the stability of perovskite-based photovoltaics could be increased.
• The researchers are continuing to explore approaches to enhance material stability.
• The upgraded APS, set to come online in spring 2024, will provide X-ray beams that are up to 500 times brighter, which will further benefit the research efforts.