Tandem Solar Cell Demonstrates 29.15% Efficiency

Scientists at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) have achieved 29.15% efficiency in a solar cell made of perovskite and silicon. This value was certified by the CalLab of the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems. It represents a new world record for a tandem solar element, the KTU researchers said. To produce the record-breaking cell, the scientists developed a material that self-assembles to form a molecular-thick electrode layer. The self-assembled monolayers (SAMs), which are as thin as 1-2 nm, cover the surface of the solar element. The molecules are based on carbazole head groups with phosphonic acid anchoring groups and are able to form SAMs on various oxides. The tandem solar cell was realized on a typical...