Perovskite Solar Cells

22.04.2025

Perovskite Solar Cells

Why in the news?                        

Recently, scientists have developed a water-based, non-toxic recycling method for PSCs, avoiding the need for hazardous solvents.

What are Perovskite Solar Cells (PSCs)?

• Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are a type of photovoltaic (PV) technology that uses crystal structures called perovskites for converting sunlight into electricity.
• These crystals share the structure of the mineral calcium titanium oxide (CaTiO₃) and can be engineered to possess a wide range of optical, electrical, and semiconducting properties.
• The general chemical formula of a perovskite compound is ABX₃, where 'A' and 'B' are cations, and 'X' is an anion.
• They offer high power conversion efficiencies at a lower cost than traditional silicon-based PVs, but they suffer from shorter lifespan and stability issues.

Carbon-Based Perovskite Solar Cells (CPSCs)

• CPSCs are the first indigenous perovskite-powered niche product developed in India, aimed at improving device stability and reducing fabrication costs.
• However, humidity and thermal stress remain challenges for widespread commercialization.
• Indian scientists have enhanced thermal stability by incorporating Guanidinium iodide (GuI) and improved moisture resistance through surface passivation using 5-amino valeric acid iodide (5-AVAI).

How the New Recycling Process Works?

• Sodium acetate is added to the recycling solution. Its acetate ions bind with lead ions, forming lead acetate, which dissolves easily in water.
• Sodium iodide and hypophosphorous acid are then introduced.
  • Sodium iodide helps in regenerating degraded perovskite crystals.
  • Hypophosphorous acid acts as a long-term stabilizer for the water-based recycling solution.
• Scientists also used ethanol and ethyl acetate to dissolve other cell components, allowing them to recycle and reassemble each layer of the solar cell.

                                  Source: The Hindu

With reference to Perovskite Solar Cells (PSCs), consider the following statements:

1. These are a class of photovoltaic technology that utilize crystals with a structure similar to the mineral calcium titanium oxide (CaTiO₃) for solar energy conversion.

2. These perovskite materials can be engineered to exhibit diverse optical, electrical and semiconducting properties.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 only

B.2 only

C.Both 1 and 2

D.Neither 1 nor 2

Answer C