As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, the search for more efficient and cost-effective solar cell technologies becomes increasingly important. Currently, the best solar cell technologies can convert only a quarter of the sun’s energy to electricity. However, researchers from the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC) in Lithuania, together with partners from Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia, are working on synthesizing a new material that could significantly increase the overall efficiency of solar modules. By exploring novel semiconductors with a chemical structure similar to perovskite materials, they aim to develop sustainable materials that could revolutionize the solar energy industry.
One way to enhance solar cell efficiency is by creating a multijunction solar cell, which combines different technologies to convert a higher percentage of solar energy into electricity. On a theoretical level, multijunction solar cells have the potential to convert almost half of the sun’s energy into electricity. However, the production of these technologies is more complex and requires the adoption of new materials and processes while considering cost and sustainability aspects.
In their research, the team from FTMC focused on semiconductors with a chemical structure similar to perovskite materials, where X is sulfur or selenium, and A and B are abundant and non-toxic metals. Using a solid-state reaction method, they synthesized a new material called tin zirconium titanium selenide for the first time. Through their experiments, they discovered that the Sn(ZrxTi1-x)Se3 alloy showed the most promise for photovoltaic applications.
The Effect of Titanium on Material Properties
One of the key findings of the study was the effect of introducing titanium into the Sn(ZrxTi1-x)Se3 alloy. The concentration of titanium had a significant impact on both the optical and electrical properties of the material. Higher concentrations of titanium resulted in a shifting of the absorption edge towards the short-wavelength infrared spectrum region. This portion of the infrared spectrum is not absorbed by conventional crystalline silicon solar cells, leading to energy loss. However, the Sn(ZrxTi1-x)Se3 semiconductors with high titanium concentration showed the potential to absorb this short-wavelength infrared light and convert it into extra energy, boosting the overall efficiency of Si-based multijunction devices.
In addition to the shifting absorption edge, the introduction of titanium also significantly enhanced the absorption coefficient of the Sn(ZrxTi1-x)Se3 alloy. Materials with high absorption coefficients are desirable for solar cells because even a very thin layer can absorb all the incoming light from the sun. In this case, a layer 20 times thinner than a strand of hair would be sufficient to capture all the sunlight.
This groundbreaking research marks the first step towards the development of novel sustainable materials with a high potential for multijunction solar cell applications in the infrared region. The next milestone in this technology is the synthesis of a Sn(ZrxTi1-x)Se3 thin film, which will enable the fabrication and testing of the solar device.
The search for more efficient solar cell technologies is crucial in the face of increasing energy prices and the growing demand for renewable energy. The research conducted by the team from FTMC and Tallinn University of Technology offers hope for the future of solar energy. By exploring novel semiconductors and synthesizing new materials such as tin zirconium titanium selenide, they aim to increase the overall efficiency of solar modules. With the potential to capture and convert a higher percentage of solar energy, these advancements could revolutionize the renewable energy sector and contribute to a more sustainable future.
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