New spraying process can be used to create more practical perovskite solar photovoltaic surfaces

In some respects, synthetic perovskite compounds can become a better alternative to the silicon semiconductors currently used in photovoltaic panels. Although some obstacles still need to be overcome, a research team at Mahidol University in Thailand has found a new process that will help to begin widespread adoption. It is reported that one of the advantages of perovskite is that it can absorb sunlight and convert energy more effectively than silicon semiconductors. In addition, the new materials are expected to further reduce the manufacturing cost of photovoltaic panels.

Sketch of spraying process (from: Mahidol University)

The researchers pointed out that semiconductor materials need to be produced at very high temperatures and then cut into thin slices. In contrast, liquid perovskite can be simply sprayed onto glass and dried.

If different types of perovskites (optimized for different qualities) can be added in successive layers, the efficiency of such solar photovoltaic panels is expected to be further improved. The current problem, however, is that new spray coatings of liquid perovskites tend to dissolve away the dry layer to which they are applied.

To solve this problem, scientists at Mahidol University in Thailand have developed a new process called "sequential spray deposition". Specifically, the liquid is converted into very fine droplets before being applied to the surface.

Research map (from: Optical Materials Express)

After making some adjustments to various parameters (including increasing the application temperature to 100°C / 212°F), the researchers successfully applied high-stability perovskite to another dry layer with better electrical properties .

The resulting solar photovoltaic panel not only exhibited two clearly defined layers, but also had both stability and good electrical performance. Chief scientist Dr. Pongsakorn Kanjanaboos stated:

"Our work demonstrates a new type of spraying process that deposits perovskite layer by layer with a controlled thickness and deposition rate, making the stacked design of solar photovoltaic panels have higher performance and more excellent stability."

Details of this research have been published in the recently published "Optical Materials Express" (Optical Materials Express).