DIY micro-spectroscopy device could transform solar energy

A new micro-spectroscopy device can test the defects in perovskite solar cells and could help to unlock the next generation of solar energy, including tech for space missions.

Jamie Laird working at the University of Melbourne
Jamie Laird working at the University of Melbourne - Exciton Science/Gavan Mitchell & Michelle Gough

This is the claim of its creator Dr Jamie Laird, a research fellow at the ARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science and the University of Melbourne. Described as the first of its kind, the DIY device started life as a personal project of Laird’s and was originally intended to analyse minerals.

Perovskite solar cells can match silicon for efficiency, are cheaper to manufacture and more flexible, but haven’t yet become commercially viable due to instability when exposed to heat, light, moisture and oxygen.

Dr Laird’s device combines a microscope and a special laser, which produces pictures and maps of the defects within solar cells and tells scientists where the cells are losing power or efficiency over time and use. It also provides data to indicate why, Laird said.

“The basis of the technique is microscopy but merging it with frequency analysis,” said Laird. “We use a laser beam and we focus to a spot and scan across the device to measure the quality of the solar cell.

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