+
Paper-thin solar cells to turn any surface into a power source
POWER & RENEWABLE ENERGY

Paper-thin solar cells to turn any surface into a power source

MIT researchers created an ultra-thin, ultra-light solar cell that may be used to convert practically any surface into a solar power source. The flexible solar cells are far thinner than human hair and are attached to a lightweight cloth to make installation on any fixed surface easier.

The current version of the novel lightweight photovoltaic (PV) cells, according to Vladimir Bulovi, lead author of the article on the research published in the journal Small Methods, is not as efficient in power conversion as silicon PVs, but they weigh significantly less. In the medium term, they would not be utilised to replace traditional silicon PV installations, but rather to provide power in areas where silicon PVs are difficult to instal.

Bulovic goes on to say that they can be utilised to transmit solar energy to remote locations. Because our PV modules are 18 times lighter per Watt generated than silicon PV modules, they may be readily shipped and installed in remote areas. As technology advances, it will achieve the efficiency currently achieved by silicon PVs. The flexible PV modules can then be regarded as a replacement for silicon PVs.

To construct this unique solar cell technology, the researchers employed nanoparticles in printable electronic inks. They employed a "slot-die coater" to deposit layers of electronic materials onto a 3-micron thick substrate. They then used a screen printing technique to print an electrode and deposit it on the substrate to complete the solar cell. At this point, the printed module is about 15 microns in thickness, and researchers can peel off the plastic substrate to get the device. For comparison, human hair is around 70 microns thick on average.

Also read
Steel imports from Russia jump over 400% in Apr-Nov period
Lokayukta Bill passed by Maharashtra assembly

MIT researchers created an ultra-thin, ultra-light solar cell that may be used to convert practically any surface into a solar power source. The flexible solar cells are far thinner than human hair and are attached to a lightweight cloth to make installation on any fixed surface easier. The current version of the novel lightweight photovoltaic (PV) cells, according to Vladimir Bulovi, lead author of the article on the research published in the journal Small Methods, is not as efficient in power conversion as silicon PVs, but they weigh significantly less. In the medium term, they would not be utilised to replace traditional silicon PV installations, but rather to provide power in areas where silicon PVs are difficult to instal. Bulovic goes on to say that they can be utilised to transmit solar energy to remote locations. Because our PV modules are 18 times lighter per Watt generated than silicon PV modules, they may be readily shipped and installed in remote areas. As technology advances, it will achieve the efficiency currently achieved by silicon PVs. The flexible PV modules can then be regarded as a replacement for silicon PVs. To construct this unique solar cell technology, the researchers employed nanoparticles in printable electronic inks. They employed a slot-die coater to deposit layers of electronic materials onto a 3-micron thick substrate. They then used a screen printing technique to print an electrode and deposit it on the substrate to complete the solar cell. At this point, the printed module is about 15 microns in thickness, and researchers can peel off the plastic substrate to get the device. For comparison, human hair is around 70 microns thick on average. Also read Steel imports from Russia jump over 400% in Apr-Nov period Lokayukta Bill passed by Maharashtra assembly

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

India to Invest Rs 600 Billion to Upgrade 1,000 ITIs

As part of its drive to modernise vocational training, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), in collaboration with Gujarat’s Labour and Employment Department, held a State-Level Workshop at the NAMTECH Campus within IIT-Gandhinagar to discuss the National Scheme for ITI Upgradation.The consultation brought together key stakeholders from industry and the training ecosystem to align expectations and support implementation of the scheme, which aims to transform 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across India using a hub-and-spoke model. The total outlay stands ..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

India Unveils Rs 600 Billion Maritime Finance Push

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) hosted the Maritime Financing Summit 2025 in New Delhi, bringing together over 250 stakeholders including policymakers, industry leaders, global investors, and financial institutions. The summit, held under the ambit of Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision (MAKV) 2047, focused on transforming India into a leading maritime power with strengthened financial, infrastructural, and technological capabilities.Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasised India's strategic progress, noting that average port turnaround times have dropped from four days to u..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Govt Allocates Rs 500 Million To Boost Community Radio

The Central Government, through its ‘Supporting Community Radio Movement in India’ scheme, has allocated Rs 500 million to strengthen the community radio ecosystem across the country. The initiative aims to assist both newly established and long-operational Community Radio Stations (CRSs), ensuring their relevance to local educational, social, cultural, and developmental needs.According to the policy published by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, CRSs may be set up by not-for-profit organisations with at least three years of demonstrated community service. These stations are ex..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?