In a significant stride towards sustainable energy solutions, researchers have combined advanced simulations and artificial intelligence to optimize organic solar cells, potentially opening new avenues for clean energy in the maritime sector. The study, led by Ola M. Mohyeldien from the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT), was recently published in the journal ‘Scientific Reports’, also known as ‘Nature Scientific Reports’.
Organic solar cells (OSCs) are a promising alternative to traditional silicon-based solar cells due to their flexibility, lightweight, and potential for low-cost production. However, their efficiency has been a limiting factor. Mohyeldien and his team tackled this challenge by simulating and optimizing the structure of OSCs using a one-dimensional solar cell simulator called SCAPS-1D. They validated their model with experimental data, ensuring its accuracy.
The researchers found that the electron transport layer made of PFN-Br yielded the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.04%, with an optimal thickness of just 5 nanometers. The active layer, which converts sunlight into electricity, reached an impressive simulated PCE of 19.50% at an optimal thickness of 300 nanometers. Additionally, the hole transport layer made of PEDOT: PSS performed reliably within a thickness range of 30 to 100 nanometers.
But the innovation doesn’t stop at simulation. The team also employed artificial intelligence models, including Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Support Vector Regression (SVR), to predict PCE and open-circuit voltage based on structural parameters. CNN emerged as the top performer in modeling PCE, showcasing its ability to handle the non-uniform behavior of photovoltaic devices.
“This combined approach using both detailed simulations and AI-based prediction doesn’t just make organic solar cells more efficient. It also supports the larger goal of making clean energy more accessible and sustainable,” Mohyeldien explained.
For the maritime sector, these advancements could be a game-changer. Ships and offshore platforms often require reliable, sustainable power sources, and organic solar cells could potentially meet this need. Their flexibility allows for integration into various surfaces, and their lightweight nature reduces the burden on structures. Moreover, the optimization of layer thicknesses and materials can cut down on waste and simplify fabrication, making these solar cells more commercially viable.
The study also highlights the potential to contribute to several Sustainable Development Goals, including affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9), responsible consumption and production (SDG 12), and climate action (SDG 13). By advancing solar technology, we can take meaningful steps towards addressing climate and energy challenges, both on land and at sea.
As Mohyeldien put it, “By fine-tuning device designs, cutting down material waste, and simplifying fabrication, this work can help move the world closer to achieving key Sustainable Development Goals.” The maritime industry, with its unique energy demands and challenges, stands to benefit significantly from these innovations.