A research team from India has introduced a novel method to boost silicon solar cell performance, stability, and lifespan by mitigating UV-induced degradation. Published in ScienceDirect, the study highlights the use of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles combined with 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluorooctyltrichlorosilane (FOTS). The coatings, applied via a cost-effective dip-coating process on ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) sheets, reduce UV damage, which impacts efficiency and durability. Testing showed single dip coatings provided optimal UV protection, while double and triple coatings caused nanoparticle agglomeration. Enhanced UV absorption improved device stability by 34% with single coatings and extended cell durability from 4.1 to 5.6 years. The team claims this approach offers a scalable, affordable solution to enhance solar PV cell performance and environmental resilience.
New study unveils UV-protective coatings for solar cells
FOTS + TiO2 nanoparticle layers reduce solar cell damage while increasing stability by up to 34%. (Image Source: ScienceDirect)
Qcells’ 28.6% tandem cell efficiency uses a perovskite top-cell and a silicon bottom-cell to maximize light capture and power output. (Image Source: Qcells)
Bhutan’s solar PV feed-in-tariff study finds user acceptability and tariff rates critical for rural energy sustainability. (Image Source: ScienceDirect)
The integration of 18.3% efficient NIR-TPSCs with 19.56% efficient opaque CdTe cells results in a 24.2% efficient 4-T tandem solar cell. (Image Credit: ACS Publications)
Fixed-tilt systems are lower priced than trackers and adaptable to undulating terrain. (Image Credit: PRNewswire)