Querétaro researchers achieve 27.8% efficiency in solar cells

Researchers at the Autonomous University of Querétaro in Mexico have developed a new solar cell made from a material called SrZrSe₃. This innovative solar cell has achieved a power conversion efficiency of 27.8%, marking a significant improvement in solar technology. The team integrated advanced inorganic metal sulfide layers, known as hole transport layers (HTLs), with SrZrSe₃. Their research, published in Energy Technology, outlines how these layers help boost efficiency by enhancing charge transport while reducing energy losses. What sets SrZrSe₃ apart is its ideal bandgap of 1.45 eV, which allows it to absorb sunlight effectively, especially in the near-infrared spectrum. This capability enables the new solar cells to convert solar energy into electricity more efficiently, which can be used to power homes and businesses. The researchers tested several metal sulfides for the HTLs, such as FeS₂ and WS₂, optimizing the design for better performance. They carefully adjusted parameters like layer thickness and defect density to achieve the remarkable efficiency. Another advantage of this technology is its stability. Traditional organic HTLs can be costly and unstable over time. However, the metal sulfide layers used in this study promise greater reliability and enhanced charge mobility. By refining material interfaces, the researchers aim to extend the lifespan of these solar cells. This breakthrough could change the solar energy landscape, offering a promising, eco-friendly alternative to conventional energy sources. With continued advances in material science, SrZrSe₃ solar cells may soon play a critical role in the shift toward sustainable energy solutions.