US scientists grow better perovskite crystals, boost solar cell efficiency to 26%

What happened

The study shows how a temporary liquid phase can help produce larger, more uniform crystals with fewer defects. Solar cells made using the technique also retained most of their initial efficiency after eight weeks of continuous operation under simulated sunlight.

Researchers have developed a new method to improve the efficiency and durability of perovskite solar cells by controlling how the materials crystallize. The team, co-led by researchers at the University of California San Diego (UC San Diego), used this approach to improve perovskite-based solar cells and light-emitting diodes.

The devices achieved efficiencies of around 24 percent to 26 percent, among the higher values reported for perovskite devices. A liquid phase improves crystal growth Perovskites are materials that could help make solar technology more affordable while delivering high efficiency.