Hong Kong Polytechnic University Achieves Record Efficiency in Binary Organic Solar Cell
June 2, 2023
Researchers at Hong Kong Polytechnic University have developed a binary organic solar cell (OSC) with a record power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.31%. This breakthrough was made possible by the invention of a non-monotonic intermediate state manipulation strategy, which effectively lowers non-radiative recombination loss and boosts efficiency.
Advancements in Non-Fullerene Acceptor Materials
In recent years, research efforts in non-fullerene acceptor (NFA) materials have significantly improved the power conversion efficiency of OSCs. The current certified record stands at 18.2% on the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) efficiency chart. However, further advancements are needed to suppress non-radiative recombination loss and enhance performance for practical applications of OSCs.
Novel Technique for Boosting Efficiency and Stability
The researchers at Hong Kong Polytechnic University achieved a breakthrough PCE of 19.31% for binary OSCs, which consist of one donor and one acceptor in the photoactive layer. They developed a novel OSC morphology-regulating technique using 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene as a crystallisation regulator. This technique effectively boosts cell efficiency and stability.
Non-Monotonic Intermediate State Manipulation Strategy
The research team devised a non-monotonic intermediate state manipulation (ISM) strategy to manipulate the bulk-heterojunction (BHJ) OSC morphology. This strategy optimizes the crystallization dynamics and energy loss of non-fullerene OSCs. Unlike traditional solvent additives, which rely on excessive molecular aggregation in films, the ISM strategy promotes more ordered molecular stacking and favorable molecular aggregation. As a result, the PCE is considerably increased, and non-radiative recombination loss is reduced.
Significance and Potential Applications
The breakthrough achieved by the researchers at Hong Kong Polytechnic University opens up tremendous opportunities for applications such as portable electronics and building-integrated photovoltaics. As OSC technology is still in its early stages, further application opportunities are expected as low-cost single-junction OSCs surpass the 20% PCE threshold and achieve more stable performance. OSCs offer unique advantages such as flexibility, transparency, stretchability, low weight, and tunable color.
Record Low Non-Radiative Recombination Loss
The latest study demonstrates a record low non-radiative recombination loss of 0.168 eV in a binary OSC with a PCE of over 19%. This result is highly encouraging for the long-standing research on OSCs conducted by Li Gang, chair professor of energy conversion technology at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, over the past two decades.
Publication and Conclusion
The researchers have published their findings in “19.3% Binary Organic Solar Cell and Low Non-Radiative Recombination Enabled by Non-Monotonic Intermediate State Transition” in Nature Communications.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 13: Climate Action
The article discusses the development of a binary organic solar cell with a record power conversion efficiency. This technology contributes to the goals of affordable and clean energy (SDG 7) by providing a more efficient and sustainable energy source. It also aligns with the goal of industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9) as it represents a breakthrough in solar cell technology. Additionally, by utilizing renewable energy, this technology supports climate action (SDG 13) by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
- SDG 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries.
- SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
The development of a high-efficiency binary organic solar cell contributes to the targets of increasing the share of renewable energy (SDG 7.2) by providing a more efficient and sustainable energy source. It also aligns with the target of enhancing scientific research and technological capabilities (SDG 9.5) as it represents a breakthrough in solar cell technology. Furthermore, by utilizing renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, it supports the target of integrating climate change measures into national policies (SDG 13.2).
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Power Conversion Efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells
- Non-radiative recombination loss
- Share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
- Investment in scientific research and technological capabilities
- Inclusion of climate change measures in national policies and planning
The article mentions the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells, which is a key indicator to measure progress towards the targets of increasing the share of renewable energy and enhancing technological capabilities. The reduction of non-radiative recombination loss is also mentioned, which is an indicator of improving the efficiency and performance of solar cells. Additionally, the article implies the need for investment in scientific research and technological capabilities to further advance organic solar cell technology. Lastly, the integration of climate change measures into national policies and planning is an indicator of progress towards climate action.
4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. | – Power Conversion Efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells – Share of renewable energy in the global energy mix |
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries. | – Power Conversion Efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells – Non-radiative recombination loss – Investment in scientific research and technological capabilities |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning. | – Power Conversion Efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells – Non-radiative recombination loss – Inclusion of climate change measures in national policies and planning |
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Source: pv-magazine.com
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