Project ID: D2019-50
Background
Perovskites are commonly used in photovoltaics, LEDs, and water splitting devices. Despite success in increasing cell efficiencies using perovskites, their instability against moisture limits their practical application. Incorporating hydrophobic materials into the perovskite has been used to mitigate this problem, but the additives do not form strong interactions. Therefore, there is a need for improved materials for stabilizing and protecting perovskites.
Invention Description
Researchers from the University of Toledo developed an additive material that binds more strongly than hydrophobic molecules currently used to improve stability against water. Following a novel fabrication method, the scientists were able to incorporate the UT additive into a solar cell perovskite without compromising device performance. Furthermore, the additive’s coordination to lead or tin in the perovskite was maintained for at least 10 hours when fully submersed in water and at least 3 months when exposed to ambient humidity.
Applications
Advantages
IP Status: Patent Pending