Development of nanotechnology is a serious impulse for development of alternative energy sources. For several years, scientists of South Ural State University (Chelyabinsk, Russia) have been working on creation of solar batteries of a new type, specificity of which is organic light-sensitive material.
Photovoltaics is a method of generating electric energy by using solar elements in order to convert solar energy into electric energy. Research fellows of SUSU Nanotechnology REC are working on research of resource-saving technology and alternative power engineering.
In photovoltaic systems, conversion of solar energy into electric energy is performed in photovoltaic converters (PV converters). Depending on material, structure and method of production, three generations of PV converters are usually distinguished: PV converters of the first generation on the basis of crystalline-silicon plates; PV converters of the second generation on the basis of thin films; PV converters of the third generation on the basis of organic and inorganic materials.
“One of the most important advantages of the third generation batteries is their fast, compared to the first and the second generations, recoupment,” assures Oleg Bolshakov. “But the problem is, the existing samples of the third generation of photovoltaics are the least efficient.”
Scientists are planning to reach the enhanced efficiency of PV converters through a unique method of introducing chalcogenides of the higher order (sulfur, selenium). Moreover, scientists intend to enhance conductivity through modification of molecular organization using methods of organic synthesis.
Source: South Ural State University