CityU's Perovskite Innovation: A Heat Shield For Renewable Energy

• City University of Hong Kong researchers have created an innovative SAM molecule to improve the thermal robustness of perovskite solar cells, unlocking their potential for use in hot climates and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have developed an innovative self-assembled monolayer that can improve the thermal robustness of perovskite solar cells, allowing these cells to retain their efficiency in higher temperatures. The team synthesized a new SAM molecule, anchoring it onto an inherently stable nickel oxide surface to promote efficient charge extraction in perovskite devices. This breakthrough could significantly broaden the utilization of perovskite solar cells, pushing their application boundaries to hot environments and climate conditions. This could reduce dependence on fossil fuels and contribute to global efforts in combatting the climate crisis.

Can Nickel Oxide Improve Thermal Robustness of Perovskite Solar Cells?

• The monolayer anchors to the surface of the nickel oxide nanoparticles, providing an efficient charge extraction pathway for charge carriers to move freely.
• The nickel oxide surface is inherently stable, meaning that its properties are not affected by temperature.
• The monolayer is composed of an innovative SAM (self-assembled monolayer) molecule, which acts as an insulating material to protect the device from higher temperatures.
• The team tested their device in different temperatures and found that the efficiency of the device was maintained up to 130°C, demonstrating the improved thermal robustness of the device.
• This breakthrough could significantly broaden the application boundaries of perovskite solar cells, allowing them to be used in hot environments and climate conditions.
• The improved thermal robustness of perovskite solar cells could reduce dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to global efforts in fighting the climate crisis.