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Research carried out at the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR) in partnership with UFRJ, both public institutions, resulted in the development of a solar cell that generates up to three times more energy than current ones, in addition to being more durable.
The intention is that, in the future, the new photovoltaic film will replace the solar panels currently in use. As a result of the research carried out at the Federal University of Paraná, the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) granted the patent to the university.
The new type of solar cell, built from flexible and generated thin films layer by layer like a print, it can be manufactured with the help of a technology patented by the University.
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In addition to acting on the durability of solar panels, the process also improved the efficiency in converting light into electricity.
Evaporated semiconductor polymers are bonded to a substrate to create a semi-transparent, flexible material that gives cells their name because they are organic compounds. This process results in the formation of a material that is more durable and efficient in generating electricity.
The main benefit of these cells is that their production process takes place on roller printers, which allows for the manufacture of kilometers of solar cells every month on flexible substrates.
This type of flexible film photovoltaic cell is much more versatile than traditional photovoltaic panels. The material is less dependent on the angle of incidence of the sun.
In addition, it is possible to use lighter support structures and can be applied in different ways, including urban furniture, greenhouses, building facades and even backpacks and coats.
The main advantage of these solar cells lies in the manufacturing method that happens through printing.
According to professor Lucimara Stolz Roman, from the Department of Physics at UFPR, the process was possible after discovering that a semiconductor polymer containing a silicon atom could undergo a chemical bond after the film was made by combining it with a silicon acceptor molecule. electrons known as fullerene.
“It was possible to establish that this chemical reaction occurred by subjecting the film to a thermal treatment after it was deposited, after the solvent had evaporated. This was done to show that the reaction takes place.”
She added that this provides benefits to manufacturing active layers with post-deposition processing, as it is a procedure that takes place after all steps have been completed.
Developers believe that organic solar cells should be less expensive, more durable and more efficient in the not too distant future, which will make solar energy much more affordable.
According to Professor Lucimara, this technology is currently being developed and, for her, it is very rewarding to be able to be part of the project, in the development of present and future cells.
