Canon has developed a new high-performance material that addresses two issues of perovskite solar cells: photoelectric conversion efficiency and longevity. This new material can, according to Canon, do two things: prevent the halogen ion movement that causes the perovskite layer to deteriorate, and move the charge generated in the perovskite layer.
A real-world demonstration (through joint research with Toin University of Yokohama) has reportedly showed that when this newly developed material is applied between the perovskite and HTL layers to form a new layer, it can maintain a high rate of photo-electric conversion efficiency while increasing durability. The new layer covers the bumps in the perovskite layer, creating a smoother surface that enables the stable mass production of the perovskite solar cell. As it also improves durability, the burden of maintenance and repair is also reduced.
Canon produces in-house the core components that determine product competitiveness, including the materials they are made of. The company developed the high-performance material applying technology that it had accumulated through the development of multifunction devices and laser printers.
The layer structure and the function of each layer of photosensitive drums, which are core components of multifunction devices and laser printers, are very similar to those of perovskite solar cells, so Canon’s engineers hit upon the idea of applying the technology developed for them.
Photosensitive drums have a layer that generates electric charges just like the perovskite layer in a solar cell, and this layer is also sandwiched between the HTL layer on top and ETL layer below. By harnessing the materials technology used in photosensitive drum to modify existing materials, the engineers developed a new material that improved perovskite solar cell durability without reducing its photoelectric conversion efficiency.
