Polymer Solar Cells Can Produce Cheaper Electricity

In an attempt to gain electricity from sunlight various solar cells have been produced so far. But recently, engineer Henry Samueli from School of Engineering and Applied Science, in collaboration with Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry UCLA and California NanoSystems Institute, has demonstrated semi-transparent polymer solar cells that has 70% visibility.

The solar cells’ top electrode is designed by using composite films of silver nanowire, and they are infrared sensitive.

The infrared photoactive part of the cells is capable to absorb more near-infrared light, thus balancing its wavelength and performance to produce electricity. These polymer solar cells are less sensitive to the visible light, an innovation that can set the tone for future applications based on photovoltaic devices.

The research has been clarified in the journal Nature Photonics. Such forms of experimental research or studies are really fruitful for developing countries but their cost is major factor whether or not to embrace it.

Credit: http://www.etechmag.com/2012/07/23/polymer-solar-cells-produce-cheap-electricity.html