In an important study published in eScience on January 25th, 2024, researchers from Sungkyunkwan University and the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology investigated the life cycle management of PSCs, focusing on crucial stability tactics and recycling approaches. The study provides insights for increasing the operating life of PSCs while also limiting environmental hazards.
Graphic abstract. Image Credit: eScience
Perovskite solar cells have gained popularity because of their high efficiency and inexpensive production costs. However, their vulnerability to environmental variables and the possible release of hazardous lead during degradation present substantial challenges.
Given the increasing need for sustainable and safe solar technology, substantial research is being conducted to address these difficulties through novel engineering and material solutions. Based on these obstacles, much research is required to fully realize the promise of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) in the solar industry.
The review looks into key initiatives for improving the stability and sustainability of PSC. Advanced interfacial layers and encapsulation techniques are critical for protecting PSCs from environmental variables like moisture, oxygen, and mechanical stress. These enhancements are critical for extending PSC operating life.
Furthermore, the study emphasizes novel recycling methods that recover valuable materials such as silver and lead from discarded PSCs, therefore decreasing environmental impact and promoting a circular economy.
These methods seek to establish a sustainable and eco-friendly PSC industry, assuring high efficiency and durability while adhering to international environmental standards. The suggested advances might greatly improve PSCs’ economic viability and environmental safety, opening the path for widespread implementation in a variety of solar energy applications.
The future of solar energy depends significantly on our ability to integrate environmental safety and sustainability into every stage of solar cell production and disposal. Our research provides a blueprint for making perovskite solar cells a viable and responsible choice for global energy needs.
Dr Gill Sang Han, Study Co-Author and Research Professor, Sungkyunkwan University
Advancements in PSC technology have the potential to transform the solar power sector by making solar cells more robust, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Implementing these study findings might lead to the widespread use of PSCs in a variety of applications, ranging from domestic to industrial scales, considerably affecting energy sustainability and lowering the environmental footprint of solar energy generation.
Journal Reference:
Kim, H. J., et. al. (2024) Managing the lifecycle of perovskite solar cells: Addressing stability and environmental concerns from utilization to end-of-life. eScience. doi:10.1016/j.esci.2024.100243