Swedish scientists develop new method to reduce defects in organic solar cells

The researchers found that printed solar cells achieved a better performance when they used an active polymer material as glue.

April 19, 2018 Paul Zubrinich

Semi-transparent solar cell module.

Image: Thor Balkhed

A research group from Sweden’s Linköping University has developed a new process which is said to reduce defects in organic solar cells.

The new process is based on the utilization of only two plastic films, one with the anodes and the other with the cathodes, that are covered with an active polymer material as glue before the two units are laminated together.

“Since only two layers are to be printed, the number of defects is lower and the probability that two defects are located exactly opposite each other during the lamination is negligible,” the scientists asserted.

The researchers found that problems in organic solar cells are usually created by moisture, as small electron traps form in the material that capture electrons before they reach the electrode. “We have shown that this lamination method works with many different combinations of polymer, and that the energy efficiency is just as high as that obtained by conventional manufacture,” said the research coordinator, Olle Inganäs.

The first prototype cells were developed by the university’s spin-off company Epishin. The future cells will be conceived for the market for indoor cells, the Linköping University said.

Author: Emiliano Bellini

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