Organic solar cells achieve high efficiency on ultrathin and highly flexible plastic foils
In short: Researchers have developed polymer-based organic solar cells that maintain their power conversion efficiency while being printed on plastic substrates less than 2 micrometers thick. Unlike traditional rigid panels, these devices can withstand extreme mechanical deformation, including a random network of folds, without losing performance. The study demonstrates that these cells are over ten times thinner and lighter than any other existing solar cell technology.
This advancement is significant for creating 'electronic skin,' wearable textiles, and surface-conforming foils where weight and durability are critical. By using standard processing methods, the researchers suggest these properties could be applied to other organic electronics like LEDs and transistors. However, as this study focuses on polymer-based devices, it does not yet account for the long-term environmental degradation of these materials in outdoor settings.
Why it matters: This research paves the way for ultra-lightweight, bendable solar power integrated into clothing and wearable electronics.
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Sources
- Source: Research: Kaltenbrunner et al. (2012). Ultrathin and lightweight organic solar cells with high flexibility. Nature Communications. · cc-by-nc-sa
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