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U.S. Develops Environmentally-Friendly Perovskite Solar Cells
**Scientists at Northwestern University Make Breakthrough in Eco-Friendly Solar Cell Technology**
A team of researchers from Northwestern University has made a significant advancement in the field of solar energy by developing a new type of perovskite solar cell that is both environmentally friendly and highly efficient. Instead of using lead, which is toxic and harmful to the environment, the scientists have successfully replaced it with tin—a more sustainable and non-toxic alternative.
This innovative approach not only reduces environmental impact but also lowers production costs. The process can be carried out using basic lab equipment, eliminating the need for expensive or hazardous materials. The study was published in *Nature Photonics* on May 5th (Beijing time), marking an important step forward in renewable energy research.
Dr. Mekri Karnatdis, one of the lead researchers and an inorganic chemistry expert, emphasized the importance of this breakthrough during an interview with the Physicist Organization Network on May 4th. "Tin is a very practical material," he said. "This development could revolutionize the future of solar technology."
Perovskite materials, known for their unique crystal structure, have been widely studied for their potential in solar cells. The first discovered perovskite was calcium titanate (CaTiO3), found in a mineral called perovskite. Traditional silicon-based solar panels are costly due to the high price of silica and often involve polluting manufacturing processes. In recent years, researchers have turned their attention to perovskite solar cells, which have seen rapid improvements in efficiency—rising from 3% to over 16% in just two years.
The new solar cells still use a perovskite structure as the light-absorbing layer, but instead of lead, they incorporate tin. Scientists believe that tin-based perovskites could match or even surpass the efficiency of lead-based ones, as both elements belong to the same group in the periodic table. Zhang Bangheng, another lead researcher and professor of materials science and engineering, explained: "Our tin-based perovskite layer acts like an efficient solar light trap."
Currently, the photoelectric conversion efficiency of this solid-state tin solar cell stands at 5.73%, which may seem low, but the researchers view it as a promising start. They highlight that tin perovskite has two key advantages: it can absorb visible light efficiently across the solar spectrum, and it can be directly melted without requiring high temperatures.
The new solar cell is structured like a "sandwich" made up of five layers. The first layer is conductive glass that allows sunlight to enter. The second layer is titanium dioxide deposited on top of the glass, acting as a conductive contact. The third layer is the tin perovskite, which captures the sunlight. This layer was produced in a nitrogen-filled glove box to prevent oxidation and protect the environment.
Above the tin perovskite is a hole transport layer, made of a pyridine molecule, which plays a crucial role in controlling current flow and enabling the cell to function properly. The final layer is a thin gold coating. The entire structure is only 1 to 2 microns thick and is air-stable. Testing showed a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 5.73%.
Since the formation of Earth, the sun has provided a continuous source of energy. As technology advances, our ability to harness solar power continues to improve. While solar cells have long struggled with high costs and low efficiency, this new tin-based perovskite technology offers a greener and more affordable alternative. Researchers hope to further enhance the efficiency of these cells, bringing us closer to truly green, efficient, and cost-effective solar energy solutions.
(Reporter: Liu Xia)