Researchers at the Polytechnic University of Madrid have studied two-dimensional PV materials that are thin enough to be considered effective without a third dimension, yet still capable of absorbing significant amounts of light.
The SyNC group combined two-dimensional materials using a technique called hot-pick-up, in which fragments are selected, collected and deposited in a transparent bubble to form structures tailored to the research requirements. The versatility of the process made it possible to experiment with different materials whose combined properties allow optimal absorption of solar energy.
The team is also working on techniques to scale up production by applying two-dimensional materials from solution to large surfaces. The researchers said that using spray and deposition techniques for these solutions allowed production processes to be scaled up. They said this would reduce costs and allow industrialization of the technology.
By simulating the effects of coating a Madrid skyscraper with the semi-transparent cells, the team estimated that they could generate up to 30% of the building’s energy needs, while maintaining sufficient natural light in the interior offices. The researchers say the cells’ lightness, flexibility and low production costs make them the most promising options for building-integrated solar energy applications.
The research received funding from the MAD2DCM-UPM project, supported by the Community of Madrid and the European Union; the 4EVERPV-CM grant from the Community of Madrid; the COMIC and PVBooster grants from the Ministry of Science and Innovation; and the Naturgy Foundation’s APE2SOL Prize.
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