ZSW is currently conducting research on perovskite solar cells. They have several attractive qualities, especially low-cost manufacturing and high efficiencies. They also combine very well with other materials to create tandem solar cells.
Our research focuses on developing economically and ecologically sustainable manufacturing processes for flexible and rigid perovskite modules as well as perovskite tandem solar cells. We pursue a consistently sustainable approach: processing relies predominantly on wet-chemical methods under ambient conditions and the use of environmentally friendly, green solvents.
A key emphasis is on scaling the technology to module sizes of up to 30 × 30 cm², along with optimizing efficiency, lifetime, material usage, and process costs. By closely linking research and application, we lay the groundwork for the industrial implementation of innovative perovskite technologies. Technology transfer into practice forms a central component of our work, supporting the rapid translation of promising research findings into marketable solutions.
Within the Perovskite Competence Cluster we are working on a pilot line in conjuction with KIT and ipv of University of Stuttgart. Learn more about it here.
Our research contributes to the development of the next generation of high-efficiency photovoltaic technologies and supports the transition to a sustainable and resource-efficient energy supply.
Perovskite solar cells come in various guises. The classic design features a mesoporous layer of metal oxides with a structure much like that of dye-sensitized solar cells. Another variant is the inverted planar solar cell. It is similar to organic solar cells, but has a perovskite layer instead of the organic absorber layer. This design looks to have a brighter future because the required processing temperatures are moderate.
Some challenges have yet to be surmounted on this new technology’s path to manufacturing maturity. The stability of the perovskite cells has to be improved and ways are being sought to replace lead with ecofriendly alternatives.
ZSW is investigating and testing various concepts for perovskite solar cell layer stack structures and their manufacturing, advancing the state of the art with industrial applications in mind.
One priority is to develop semi-transparent cells and tandem structures in combination with Silicone and CIGS solar cells in order to make the most of the solar spectrum and further increase efficiency.
Tandem solar cells can utilise the light spectrum significantly more efficiently than conventional single-junction solar cells and can therefore achieve higher efficiencies – with a long-term potential of up to 30%. They consist of at least two sub-cells with different absorption ranges, or so-called bandgaps.
The bandgap of perovskite solar cells can easily be modified by adjusting the composition. This makes it possible to design perfectly tuned perovskite sub-cells for the fabrication of perovskite-silicon, perovskite-CIGS, or perovskite-perovskite tandem solar cells.
ZSW's focus is on the fabrication of perovskite-CIGS tandem cells, which are either deposited directly on top of each other in a monolithic process – and therefore have the conventional single positive and negative contact ("2-terminal [2T]") – or manufactured separately and electrically isolated before being stacked, resulting in a total of four electrical contacts ("4-terminal [4T]"). This work is supported through several projects (PERCISTAND, CAPITANO).
ZSW is currently establishing a pre-pilot line for the coating of perovskite modules using industrially scalable methods, for both rigid and flexible modules, each with coating areas of up to 30 cm × 30 cm.
Visit our project page, to learn more about PeroClu1.
Drawing on many years’ experience researching the technology and engineering of CIGS modules, ZSW possesses the laser structuring, interconnection, measurement equipment, and skills needed to manufacture modules. Its researchers have already produced working 10 x 10 cm perovskite modules and now aim to make full-fledged perovskite CIGS tandem modules alongside standalone (semi-transparent) perovskite modules.
An important technical challenge arises because the currently employed layers are susceptible to moisture and other environmental influences. ZSW researchers have set out to tackle this challenge by conducting accelerated ageing tests in climate chambers and outdoors to identify suitable encapsulation materials.
In terms of the circular economy, it is necessary to research the recyclability of a new material right from the initial stage. This also applies to photovoltaic modules made of perovskite, an alternative to the classic silicon module. Together with industrial partners, the ZSW is investigating how thin-film solar modules can be reused at the end of their service life. The ZSW also organizes comprehensive workshops on the topic of module recycling, see topic website.
