Flexible perovskite solar cells (PSCs) show promise for next-generation photovoltaic technology but face challenges in mechanical stability and durability, especially in flexible substrates for portable applications.
A study published in npj Flexible Electronics introduces a novel approach using siloxane coupling agents to enhance the mechanical robustness of flexible perovskite solar cells.
Siloxane molecules act as molecular adhesives, forming a chemically bonded interface that reduces delamination and crack propagation during mechanical strain.
The integration of siloxane coupling agents through screen printing improves mechanical endurance without compromising photovoltaic performance metrics.
Mechanistic studies reveal that siloxane-treated devices exhibit reduced crack formation and minimal drop in power conversion efficiency after bending cycles.
This advancement allows for the integration of flexible perovskite solar cells into wearable electronics, IoT devices, and other applications requiring high efficiency and mechanical resilience.
The selective nature of the siloxane assembly process enables precise control over interfacial chemistry, maintaining outstanding photovoltaic parameters.
The strategy also offers potential protection against environmental factors like moisture and oxygen ingress, enhancing the overall stability of flexible PSCs.
The research contributes to the commercialization roadmap of flexible solar cells by combining scalable screen printing with molecular interface engineering.
The innovative use of siloxane coupling agents represents a significant milestone in developing durable, efficient, and scalable photovoltaic technologies for flexible electronics applications.