Quantum dot solar cells have achieved a groundbreaking efficiency record, marking a significant milestone in the development of this promising solar technology. Engineers at UNIST in South Korea have successfully created quantum dot solar cells with a world record efficiency of 18.1%, surpassing the previous record of 16.6% set in 2020.
Quantum dots, which are minuscule semiconductor crystals, have demonstrated exceptional capabilities in absorbing and emitting light. Their size allows for the manipulation of the light spectrum they interact with, making them valuable for various applications, including display technologies and sensors.
However, the most promising application of quantum dots lies in the field of solar energy. Unlike traditional solar cells that utilize bulk materials for light absorption, quantum dot solar cells can leverage multiple sizes of quantum dots to capture different wavelengths of light, thereby enhancing their potential efficiency. Additionally, these solar cells are cost-effective and easily manufacturable, with the potential for spray-on applications.
The recent breakthrough by the UNIST team involved the development of quantum dot solar cells using organic perovskite materials. By refining the fabrication process and optimizing the arrangement of the quantum dots, the team achieved a remarkable 18.1% efficiency, setting a new world record. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has independently verified this achievement, further affirming the significance of this advancement.
Notably, the improved quantum dot solar cells also exhibited enhanced stability, maintaining their efficiency for 1,200 hours under normal conditions and 300 hours at an elevated temperature of 80 °C (176 °F). Moreover, they demonstrated sustained performance even after two years in storage, indicating a considerable leap forward in the durability of these solar cells.
Despite these remarkable advancements, quantum dot solar cells still have a considerable distance to cover in catching up to the widespread adoption of silicon solar cells. With silicon solar cells having enjoyed a significant head start and nearing their theoretical maximum efficiency, quantum dot technology, which only emerged in the laboratory around 2010, continues to undergo rapid development. The efficiency of quantum dot solar cells has seen a substantial increase from under 4% in 2010 to the current record of 18.1%, signifying the immense progress made in just over a decade.
