A research team from East China University of Science and Technology has unveiled a novel method to extend the lifespan of perovskite solar cells by developing an ultrathin protective layer for perovskite materials using graphene and a special transparent polymer. Experiments showed this "armor" doubles materials' stress resistance, reducing the expansion rate to 0.08 percent from 0.31 percent.
Perovskite materials expand by over 1 percent when exposed to light, the team noted, adding that they repeatedly expand and contract under sunlight, like an inflating and deflating balloon, causing the internal crystals to squeeze each other and generate destructive forces, ultimately leading to structural failure. Cells protected by the team's new "armor" maintained 97% efficiency after 3,670 hours, or about 153 days, of continuous operation under simulated real-world conditions of intense light and high temperatures, marking the longest-ever stable operation period for perovskite cells and providing feasibility for commercial use.
The team has reportedly begun pilot trials with industry partners.
