Scientists at Northwestern University have made a significant breakthrough by developing environmentally friendly perovskite solar cells that replace traditional lead-based materials with tin. This innovative approach not only makes the technology greener but also reduces costs and simplifies manufacturing. The new solar cells can be produced using basic lab equipment, avoiding the need for expensive tools or hazardous substances. The research was published in *Nature Photonics* on May 5 (Beijing time).
Mekri Karnatdis, an inorganic chemistry expert and one of the study’s leading researchers, shared his excitement about the development. In an interview with the Physicist Organization Network on May 4, he stated, “This is a major step forward in the evolution of solar cell technology. Tin is a highly practical and sustainable material.â€
Perovskite materials, known for their unique crystal structure, are ceramic oxides first discovered in the mineral perovskite, which contains calcium titanate (CaTiO3). Traditional silicon-based solar panels are costly and environmentally damaging due to the processing of silica. As a result, researchers have increasingly focused on perovskite solar cells in recent years, achieving a rapid increase in efficiency—from just 3% to over 16% in just two years. This has earned them the nickname "the star of tomorrow" in the solar energy field.
The new solar cells use a similar perovskite structure but substitute lead with tin. Scientists believe that since tin and lead belong to the same chemical family, tin-based perovskite could achieve or even surpass the 15% efficiency of lead-based versions. Zhang Bangheng, another lead researcher and a professor of materials science and engineering, explained, “Our tin-based perovskite layer functions as an efficient light-harvesting component.â€
Although the current photoelectric conversion efficiency of this solid-state tin solar cell is around 5.73%, the team sees it as a promising beginning. They note that tin perovskite has two key advantages: it can absorb visible light across the solar spectrum efficiently, and it can be melted directly without the need for high heat.
The new solar cell is structured like a "sandwich," consisting of five layers. The first layer is conductive glass that allows sunlight to enter. The second layer is titanium dioxide deposited on top of the glass, acting as a conductive contact. The third layer is the tin perovskite, which serves as the main light-absorbing material. This layer was created in a nitrogen-filled glove box to prevent oxidation and protect the environment.
Above the tin perovskite is a hole transport layer, crucial for controlling current flow and ensuring the cell functions properly. This layer is made from a pyridine molecule—a six-membered heterocyclic compound containing a nitrogen atom. The final layer is a thin gold coating, completing the device. The entire structure is about 1 to 2 microns thick and is air-stable. Testing showed a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 5.73%.
Since the formation of Earth, the sun has continuously provided energy through its light and heat. With technological progress, our methods of harnessing solar energy have evolved. Solar cells, as a renewable energy source, have long faced challenges such as high costs and low efficiency. The new tin-perovskite solar cell offers environmental benefits and cost reductions, but researchers still aim to improve the efficiency further. Their ultimate goal is to bring us truly green, efficient, and affordable solar power. (Reporter: Liu Xia)
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