| Work Detail |
Japanese researchers have designed a 100 cm² perovskite solar cell module that incorporates a robust single-walled carbon nanotube (CNT) electrode to improve durability and allow light absorption from both sides. A research team from Nagoya University, in collaboration with the Japanese company Denso Corp., has developed a 100 cm² perovskite solar cell module using a single-walled CNT electrode. Scientists are seeking to improve the durability and performance of perovskite solar technology. Yutaka Matsuo, a researcher at the Department of Chemical Systems Engineering, Nagoya University Graduate School of Engineering, led the project. His team focused on addressing the significant durability challenge faced by perovskite solar cells. Traditional metal electrodes, which have been used in this type of solar cell, suffer from oxidation and corrosion, which affects the cells long-term stability. In contrast, CNT electrodes are chemically stable, highly resistant to oxidation, and enable efficient charge transport thanks to their high electronic conductivity. Furthermore, their flexibility and transparency allow them to absorb light from both sides, increasing the cells energy production. According to the researchers, this makes CNT electrodes suitable for use on flexible substrates or curved surfaces, providing greater design flexibility. The researchers used CNT electrodes as hole-collecting electrodes in perovskite solar cells, and improved their performance and durability by using 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol, a soft hole-doping material. The transparency of the CNT electrodes allows for a more aesthetically pleasing design than traditional opaque metal electrodes. When applied to windows, light absorption on both sides allows for power generation from both outdoor and indoor light. Although the energy conversion efficiency of CNT-PSCs is slightly lower than that of perovskite solar cells with traditional gold electrodes, the ability to absorb light from both sides compensates for this difference, maintaining overall efficiency. CNT electrodes contribute to improved durability, as they do not accelerate the decomposition of the perovskite material as much as metal electrodes. The research team has also begun demonstration tests of CNT-PSCs at Nagoya University, with CNT-PSCs and organic photovoltaic cells (CNT-OPVs) installed on windows at the National Innovation Complex. The demonstration tests record energy output, light intensity, temperature, and humidity. The installation is designed to use stored solar energy to light LEDs, fostering the development and awareness of renewable energy technologies. The research paves the way for the commercialization of CNT-based perovskite solar cells, which could transform the solar energy landscape by offering more durable, flexible, and efficient solar technology. Japan is accelerating its push into perovskite solar technology, with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) targeting 20 GW of perovskite deployment by 2040. In late November 2024, METI predicted that perovskite panel production costs could drop to 10 yen ($0.07)/watt by 2040. And at Smart Energy Week 2025 in February, METI announced a $1.5 billion investment to expand perovskite production. In January 2025, Sekisui Chemical launched perovskite pilot projects with MUFG Bank to test the performance and durability of perovskite panels in urban environments. Meanwhile, a Japanese consortium began testing flexible perovskite modules at Yokohamas Osanbashi Pier in late 2024, with the goal of improving efficiency and durability. |
