Japanese researchers have developed a novel material called fullerene indanone (FIDO) that could dramatically increase the durability of perovskite solar cells. Will the technology now achieve a breakthrough?
The number of solar systems has increased significantly in recent years. Because energy from the sun is now usually considered the cheapest form of energy. A research team from Japan recently developed a new material called fullerene indanone (FIDO). It could be crucial to improve the durability and efficiency of solar cells.
FIDO could create solar cells based on organic photodiodes and photodetectors. One material could particularly benefit from this: perovskite. After all, perovskite solar cells are considered the future of solar energy. The crystal-based cells are not only very efficient, but also lighter and more flexible than conventional silicon solar cells.
FIDO strengthens perovskite cells with carbon compounds
Perovskite solar cells are therefore particularly suitable for installation on vertical surfaces such as windows and walls. An essential component of the properties of these solar cells is fullerene (C60). This is a carbon-based semiconductor that can conduct electrons and thus generate energy.
The addition of organic molecules to fullerenes enables electronic functions to be improved. With the introduction of FIDO, researchers added indanones to fullerenes. This is because indanones are compounds that are useful in reaction processes and have a unique structure. They lead to strong carbon bonds between the fullerene and the benzene part of the indanone.
New approach is more efficient, more stable and longer lasting
This results in excellent stability that can withstand even strong heat. One of the researchers' innovations is the control of the film. This makes it possible to create an amorphous material instead of the crystalline material commonly found in currently used silicon solar cells.
Finally, amorphous materials have a more random structure than carefully organized crystals. This randomness makes it possible to design amorphous films with specific properties. This is done by adapting the deposition conditions and tailoring the electrical properties of the film to the requirements of solar technology.
The technology developed by the researchers offers a number of advantages over traditional films. Because it is more efficient and stable – and with a particularly high level of durability.
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Source: https://www.basicthinking.de/blog/2024/03/12/fido-perowskit/
