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Industrial Research And Consultancy Centre
Patent
NIR-Transparent Organic and Perovskite Bi-Facial Optoelectronic Devices and System for Preparation Thereof
Abstract

This invention presents a highly efficient large-area Near-Infrared (NIR) transparent solar cell based on hybrid organic-inorganic lead halide perovskites. This device includes various layers to enhance performance and durability, utilizing novel fabrication techniques that allow for room-temperature deposition of Transparent Conducting Oxides (TCOs). It also features optimized silver bus and fingers to address charge carrier collection issues, enabling rapid and high-quality production of solar cells.

Figure: The digital images of TCO deposition setup and actual device images along with sunlight and artificial room light transmission are shown in the figure. The inset also shows the cross-sectional field emission scanning electron microscopy images depicting all the individual layers associated with the aforementioned NIR-transparent solar cells.

Problem Statement

Large-area solar cells often suffer from reduced performance due to higher parasitic resistance offered by transparent electrodes results in charge carrier collection inefficiencies and damage during Transparent Conducting Oxides (TCOs) deposition on temperature-sensitive charge transport layers and perovskites.

Uniqueness of the Solution
  • Efficient large-area solar cell: It exhibits improved charge collection and minimized reflection loss. 
  • Room-temperature deposition: Modified RF (radio frequency) magnetic sputtering system enables TCO deposition at room temperature, preserving the integrity of underlying materials like organic charge transport layers and perovskites.   
  • High-quality and rapid TCO deposition: This ensures efficient manufacturing processes. A protective interlayer safeguards sensitive layers during transparent conductive oxide (TCO) deposition.
  • Dual functionality of TCO layer: TCO layer acts as both a conductive electrode and a moisture barrier, enhancing device stability and durability.
  • Tunable deposition power: Between 20W and 70W 
  • High deposition rates: Up to 2 Å/s
  • Versatile material compatibility: It is suitable for various solar cell materials including inorganic halide perovskites, organic solar cells, and colloidal quantum dot solar cells.
  • Dual anti-reflection coating: It minimizes reflection loss for improved light absorption. 
  • Optimized silver bus and fingers: They improve charge carrier collection.
Prototype Details

The prototypes include solar cells with various configurations of charge transport layers, protective layers, and TCOs, demonstrating enhanced performance and stability over large areas.

Current Status of Technology

The technology is developed and optimized for large-scale fabrication, ensuring high efficiency and stability of the solar cells.

Technology readiness level

5

Societal Impact

This technology promises to make solar energy more efficient and affordable, contributing to sustainable energy solutions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Applications or Domain
  • Photovoltaic power generation: Efficient solar energy harvesting for residential, commercial, and industrial applications
  • Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV): Integration into windows and facades to generate power while maintaining transparency
  • Wearable electronics: Powering wearable devices with lightweight and flexible solar cells
  • Agrivoltaics: Utilizing NIR transparent solar cells in agricultural settings to provide shade and generate power without significantly affecting crop growth

Geography of IP

Type of IP

Application Number

202321026202

Filing Date
Grant Number

503121

Grant Date
Assignee(s)
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
**This IP is owned by IIT Bombay**