NU 2014-049

Inventors

Feng Hao

Mercouri G. Kanatzidis*

Short Description

Advanced lead-free solar cell that uses a perovskite mineral for harvesting light

Abstract

Recent advances in the field of photovoltaic technology have enabled production of low-cost, high-efficiency solar cells. However, these devices are based on lead-containing perovskite minerals, which present a concern from an environmental point of view. Northwestern University researchers were able to solve this problem by designing and manufacturing a solar cell without the use of lead. Their novel methylamonium tin halide perovskite material is not only lead-free, but also features the ideal optical band gap, which makes it an efficient light harvesting material. This disruptive technological advance will further solar cell research by removing a critical concern about detrimental effects to the environment.

Applications

• Solar energy conversion
• Lead-free solar cells

Advantages

• Environmentally friendly
• High electron mobility
• Cost-effective

Publications

Hao F, Stoumpos C, Cao D, Chang R, Kanatzidis M (2014) Lead-free solid-state organic-inorganic halide perovskite solat cells. Nature Photonics. (8):489-494.

IP Status

US patent application has been filed