Innovative Advances in Perovskite Solar Cell Longevity
Recent advancements led by researchers from the University of Surrey have revealed that perovskite solar cells could achieve a lifespan increase of up to ten times, primarily due to the incorporation of alumina (Al2O3) nanoparticles, which enhance both durability and stability in these highly efficient energy systems.
This groundbreaking study is reported in the journal EES Solar.
The Challenge with Current Solar Technologies
Despite their potential as an economical and lightweight alternative to conventional silicon solar panels, the practicality of efficiency-by-22/” title=”Breakthrough Stabilizing Ligand Boosts All-Inorganic Perovskite Cell Efficiency by 22%!”>perovskite cells has been compromised by structural weaknesses—most notably attributed to iodine leakage. This gradual loss impacts material longevity and efficiency over time.
A Promising Solution
In partnership with the National Physical Laboratory and the University of Sheffield, scientists have developed a method for effectively capturing iodine through embedding aluminum oxide nanoparticles within perovskite materials. This innovation signals exciting opportunities for creating more sustainable and affordable solar technology.
Dr. Hashini Perera, who serves as a leading researcher at Surrey’s Advanced Technology Institute, remarked on this significant finding: “Witnessing our method produce such results is thrilling; just ten years ago, envisioning perovskite solar cells achieving this level of endurance was nearly unimaginable.”
“These enhancements mark a significant stride toward stability and capability advancement that brings perovskite technology nearer to mainstream energy application.”
Testing Under Real-World Conditions
The research involved rigorous testing under elevated temperatures and humidity levels meant to simulate real environmental conditions. Remarkably, modified solar cells equipped with Al2O3 nanoparticles sustained high efficiency for over two months (around 1,530 hours), outperforming standard versions that only lasted approximately 160 hours.
The Scientific Impact
Further examination showed that Al2O3 particles helped create a more uniform structure within perovskites—reducing flaws while improving electrical conductivity—and produced an additional protective 2D layer against moisture-related degradation.
“By tackling these frequent challenges encountered with current perovskite technologies,” explained Dr. Imalka Jayawardena from Surrey’s Advanced Technology Institute, “our findings unlock vast potential for developing affordable sunpower solutions that are also efficient.”
A Step Towards Broader Implementation
This success moves us closer towards practical applications on a global scale,” stated Professor Ravi Silva—the Director of both the Advanced Technology Institute and interim Director at The Surrey Institute for Sustainability—“Given how urgent it is to meet Net-Zero targets soon, enhancing access to renewable energies plays an essential role in decreasing fossil fuel reliance.”
The Economic Perspective
“Recent assessments from organizations like The Confederation of British Industry underline how training within renewable energy domains not only enhances career pathways but can also lead individuals toward earnings above national averages—highlighting further incentives linked with investing in clean energy solutions,” he added.
More information:
W. Hashini K. Perera et al., “Enhanced Stability and Electronic Uniformity in Modified Perovskite Solar Cells via Nanoengineered Buried Oxide Layer,” EES Solar (2025). DOI: 10.1039/D4EL00029C
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University of Surrey
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Breakthrough Achieved in Extending Lifespan Of Perovskite Solar Cells (2025). Retrieved February 28 from https://techxplore.com/news/2025-02-scientists-code-longer-perovskite-solar.html
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