Researchers at the University of Sheffield, in collaboration with Power Roll Ltd., have developed a cost-effective, flexible solar cell using a perovskite semiconductor. This innovative design, which consolidates electrical contacts onto the back of the cell, simplifies production and enhances efficiency, making solar power more accessible, especially in regions where conventional panels are impractical.
Due to their lightweight and flexible nature, these solar cells can be applied to unconventional surfaces such as rooftops that cannot support the weight of standard panels. Combined with their anticipated lower cost, this innovation could accelerate the adoption of solar energy, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
To evaluate the composition and integrity of the solar cells, the researchers used a Hard X-ray nanoprobe microscope at Diamond Light Source in Oxfordshire. This advanced imaging method provided highly detailed views of the cells’ internal structure, revealing any flaws or gaps that might impact performance. This is the first time this type of analysis has been applied to this category of solar cell, providing insights that could improve future designs.
One of the key advantages of this new solar cell technology is its ability to function without rare and expensive materials such as indium, which is commonly used in conventional photovoltaic devices. Avoiding these materials makes the solar cells more sustainable and cost-effective while reducing supply chain concerns associated with rare earth elements.
The research builds on over a decade of collaboration between the University of Sheffield and Power Roll Ltd. Their work has focused on materials science, advanced imaging techniques and scalable manufacturing processes to develop next-generation solar technology.
Although perovskite-based solar technology is still in the early stages of commercial deployment, ongoing research is accelerating its development. The next phase of this project will involve further refining the use of X-ray microscopy to study device stability. New experiments planned at Diamond Light Source will investigate factors affecting long-term performance.
For more information: ACS Applied Energy Materials
