Perovskite Solar Cells: the Future of Solar Energy

Mapping the pathways of photo-induced ion migration in organic-inorganic hybrid halide perovskites

Researchers from the Univeristy of California, Seoul National Univeristy, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory have made significant strides in understanding the behavior of perovskite materials, which are crucial for the future of solar energy. The study, published in Nature Communications, invetsigates  perovskite materials which are used in solar panelsa and are known for their excellent optoelectronic properties but suffer from instability when exposed to light.

Using advanced techniques such as in situ laser illumination inside a scanning electron microscope, the researchers observed the movement of ions within the perovskite materials. They focused on two types of perovskites, MAPbI3 and FAPbI3, and discovered that ions can migrate over long distances, which was unexpected. Additionally, they found that lead ions moved vertically within the material, affecting both the surface and the bulk.

The 532-nm Cobolt CW laser source was used in the study for reference experiments to observe the effects of light exposure on the perovskite materials

Implications for Solar Technology

These findings are crucial for the development of more stable and efficient perovskite solar panels. By understanding how ions move within these materials, scientists can design better perovskites that enhance the performance and longevity of solar panels. This research provides a pathway to overcoming the current limitations of perovskite-based solar technology.