Gas quenching with helium, argon for more stable perovskite solar cells
Kuwait University researchers investigated the relationship between the molecular weight of the quenching gas and the morphology of perovskite films used in solar cells, finding that argon and helium extended device lifetimes compared to using the more conventional nitrogen.
Chinese scientists build 20.3%-efficient mini inverted perovskite solar modules via slot die coating
A team led by University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) has found that pyrrodiazole as an additive in formamidinium iodide (FAI)-based inverted perovskite solar enables larger area devices made with industry-compatible slot die coating. Modules made using the technology achieved 20.3% certified power conversion efficiency and retained 94% of initial efficiency after 1,000 h in standard testing.
Chinese PV Industry Brief: Solar glass prices on the rise
Solar glass prices continued to climb this week, with 2.0 mm sheets rising 8% to CNY 13.5 ($1.85) per square meter and 3.2 mm sheets up 9.8% to CNY 22.5, according to the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association (CNMIA).
UNSW develops PV panel recycling method that recovers cell metals for upcycling
UNSW researchers were able to recover silicon from end of life solar PV panels pure enough for re-use in silicon carbide-based devices. Their novel multi-step method which includes thermal and chemical processes, also recovers silver.
Power Roll developing 12.8%-efficient back-contact perovskite solar devices
Researchers from the U.K.’s University of Sheffield and Power Roll, a perovskite solar PV technology company, have achieved 12.8% power conversion efficiency in indium-free devices based on novel back-contact process. A slot-die coating process was demonstrated, compatible with roll-to-roll manufacturing.
Chinese PV Industry Brief: Daqo posts $345.2 million net loss for 2024
Daqo has recorded a $345.2 million net loss for 2024. The Chinese polysilicon manufacturer said revenue fell due to significantly lower average selling prices and a drop in sales volume.
UbiQD developing novel encapsulant technology for solar modules
The U.S.-based quantum dot (QD) materials company is developing polymer encapsulation materials that reportedly have the potential to provide a relative power boost of 16% when integrated into crystalline silicon PV devices.
Italy’s Enea testing highly UV-transparent encapsulants
The Italian research agency has tested new UV aging tests on solar PV mini-modules made with UV-transparent polyolefins encapsulants and has found that thermal and chemical stability benefits in thermoplastic polyolefin-based (TPO) compared to EVA encapsulants.
Sinovoltaics updates map of North American solar supply chain
The North American manufacturing hub has added several new producers across the PV module supply chain but analysts see continued cell, wafer, and polysilicon capacity constraints. The report is based on announcements of capacities at sites in the region producing PV modules, cells, wafers, ingots, polysilicon, and metallurgical-grade silicon.
Strategies to reduce perovskite solar cell degradation caused by thermal stress
An international team investigated repeated thermal stress on metal-halide perovskite solar cells and has proposed strategies to boost resistance to degradation effects of diurnal cycles or geographical conditions.
