New Material Harnesses, Wasted Light to Make , Solar Panels More Efficient.
'The Independent' reports that scientists
have found a way to significantly increase
the efficiency of solar panels. .
The new method reportedly involves
harnessing the power of previously
unused portions of the light spectrum.
The team from Shanghai University of Engineering Science
found that a glass-ceramic material could be used
to convert ultraviolet (UV) light into visible light. .
With potential applications in both
terrestrial and space photovoltaic cells,
the development of spectral downshifting
co-doped glass-ceramics might open
up new avenues to achieve better
performance in photovoltaic devices. , Pei Song, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, via 'The Independent'.
The new material also provides an added layer
of protection for next-gen perovskite cells that are
known to suffer from degradation under strong light.
'The Independent' reports that the team's
findings could provide a protective layer for
photovoltaic cells used in the space industry.
Nowadays, expanding space stations
require more power support and need
high-performance photovoltaic cells. , Pei Song, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, via 'The Independent'.
By covering the top side of a photovoltaic
cell with the proposed spectral
conversion material and using appropriate
encapsulation and sealing technology,
we can ensure very low humidity
levels and efficient UV recycling. , Pei Song, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, via 'The Independent'.
In addition, glass-ceramic materials
have a hard texture, so they can
protect photovoltaic cells from
being hit by tiny floating debris in space, Pei Song, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, via 'The Independent'.
The team's findings were detailed
in the 'Journal of Photonics for Energy.'
