In a promising stride towards cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions, researchers have been exploring alternatives to traditional solar cell materials. One such breakthrough comes from the Centre for Sustainable Materials Research at the Academy of Maritime Education and Training (AMET) Deemed to be University, where lead author Saranya Kumaresan and her team have been investigating a novel, lead-free perovskite material for solar cell applications.
The study, published in the journal ‘Scientific Reports’ (which translates to ‘Scientific Reports’ in English), focuses on a bismuth-based perovskite material known as MA₃Bi₂I₉ (MBI). This material is gaining attention due to its lower toxicity, high chemical stability, and excellent photo-absorbing capabilities, making it a viable alternative to lead-halide-based photovoltaics.
The team fabricated perovskite solar cells without the need for expensive and degradable organic hole-transport materials like Spiro-OMeTAD and PEDOT:PSS. Instead, they employed a simple one-step spin coating method using two different solvents: Dimethylformamide (DMF) and Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO). The choice of solvent significantly influenced the band gap and surface morphology of the MBI thin films, ultimately affecting the efficiency of the solar cells.
Kumaresan explained, “We found that the DMSO solvent-based solar cell device exhibited 32% more efficient cell performance than the DMF solvent-based solar cell device.” This enhancement in efficiency is a crucial step towards making bismuth-based perovskite solar cells commercially viable.
The maritime industry, which heavily relies on fossil fuels, stands to benefit significantly from advancements in solar cell technology. Ships equipped with efficient solar panels could reduce their carbon footprint and operational costs. Moreover, the stability and durability of these new materials could make them ideal for the harsh marine environment.
The commercial impact of this research extends beyond the maritime sector. The development of lead-free, stable, and efficient solar cells could revolutionize the renewable energy landscape. As Kumaresan noted, “The formation of perovskite is confirmed by FTIR analysis, indicating the potential for scalable and cost-effective production methods.”
The study also highlights the importance of solvent engineering in tuning the properties of perovskite materials. By optimizing the fabrication process, researchers can enhance the performance of solar cells, paving the way for broader adoption of renewable energy technologies.
For maritime professionals, this research offers a glimpse into a future where ships could harness the power of the sun more efficiently and sustainably. As the industry continues to seek ways to reduce its environmental impact, innovations like these could play a pivotal role in shaping a greener and more sustainable future.
In summary, the work by Kumaresan and her team at AMET represents a significant step forward in the development of lead-free perovskite solar cells. The enhanced efficiency and stability of these materials hold promise for various applications, including the maritime sector, where the demand for clean and reliable energy solutions is ever-growing.