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

30 Dec 2022 CW Team

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

Real Estate

07 Jul 2026

Pecan Realty Completes Rs 1.5 Billion Transactions

Pecan Realty has recently completed four institutional transactions worth over Rs 1.5 billion over the past two years, strengthening its position as an execution-led real estate platform. The deals include resolution-led acquisitions, structured finance transactions and capital partnerships across its development portfolio.The transactions covered acquisitions through the National Company Law Tribunal process and helped provide repayment or exits to both private and public sector lenders. The company said the deals demonstrate its ability to resolve complex project situations, work with instit..

SNN Estates Expands North Bengaluru Housing Project

SNN Estates has announced an expansion of its SNN Estates Felicity residential project in North Bengaluru following strong buyer demand, with 75 per cent of the first-phase inventory sold within three days of launch.The developer will add 76 apartments in the new phase, taking the project's estimated revenue potential to around Rs 1,000 crore upon completion of Phase 2.Spread across 6.5 acres in Rachenahalli, near Manyata Tech Park, the project comprises 604 apartments in 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3 and 4 BHK configurations. The development includes a 50,000-sq-ft clubhouse with amenities such as sports co..

SCG Drives ASEAN Industrial Transformation Strategy

SCG is strengthening its focus on ASEAN as a key growth region by advancing industrial transformation, enhancing competitiveness and building resilient regional value chains. Thammasak Sethaudom, President and Chief Executive Officer, SCG, highlighted the need for industries to continuously develop capabilities, strengthen resilience and deepen regional cooperation to achieve sustainable long-term growth.SCG views ASEAN as an important growth engine alongside China, supported by favourable demographics, trade connectivity and investment flows. With ASEAN’s GDP projected to grow by around 4.7..