Perovskite solar cells are a new type of solar technology that’s lightweight, flexible, and affordable.
They can be used in creative ways, like in windows, clothing, or tents that generate electricity from the sun.
But despite their promise, these solar cells haven’t made it to everyday use just yet—mainly because they don’t last long.
Exposure to humidity and everyday temperatures causes the materials in the cells to break down quickly, making them unreliable over time.
Now, a research team from the Federal University of ABC (UFABC) in São Paulo, Brazil, has found a simple and effective way to make these solar cells last much longer.
Unlike other solutions that require expensive, tightly controlled lab conditions, this new method works in ordinary environments without special humidity or temperature controls.
That makes it much more practical for large-scale manufacturing.
Led by Professor André Sarto Polo, the team focused on tweaking the chemical makeup of the perovskite material used in the cells. Perovskites are made of a crystal structure with a mix of positive and negative ions.
In particular, solar researchers have studied versions made with methylammonium (MA+) and formamidinium (FA+) ions. In this study, the UFABC team tested different combinations of these two types of ions to see which mix would make the cells more durable.
They created and tested the solar cells in rooms with regular humidity—between 40% and 60%—and then left them exposed to the open air for 90 days.
The results were dramatic. Cells made only with MA+ quickly lost efficiency and stopped working within a month. But the ones that had more than 25% FA+ held up remarkably well, keeping 80% of their original performance even after three months.
Professor Polo explains that adding FA+ changes the way the crystal grains form in the perovskite material. The grains become larger, which means fewer edges where moisture can sneak in and cause damage. That small change makes a big difference in how long the solar cells last.
This research, done as part of Lucas Polimante’s PhD work, brings perovskite solar cells one step closer to being a real-world solution.
With better durability and the ability to make them under everyday conditions, this technology could soon help bring more affordable and eco-friendly solar power to homes and businesses around the world.
Source: KSR.
