A team of researchers from the University of Alberta developed a cost-effective solar cell — made with spray-paint like synthetics.
Jillian Buriak, a chemistry professor at the university, along with post-doctoral fellows Erik Luber and Hosnay Mobarok, used zinc phosphide nanoparticles — a promising, non-conventional material in the solar cell industry. They found these particles dissolved to form an ink. When sprayed and dried, the thin film was responsive to light.
As ScienceDaily explains:
Buriak and her team have designed nanoparticles that absorb light and conduct electricity from two very common elements: phosphorus and zinc. Both materials are more plentiful than scarce materials such as cadmium and are free from manufacturing restrictions imposed on lead-based nanoparticles.
The benefits of her unique solar cell revolve around saving money. Buriak's plastic base cuts out the expensive silicone found in the big blue panels. An additional benefit is their lightweight nature. Today’s rooftop panels sometimes require a contractor to install them, and ceilings often need reinforcement. That would no longer be a problem with this thin film.
"Half the world already lives off the grid, and with demand for electrical power expected to double by the year 2050, it is important that renewable energy sources like solar power are made more affordable by lowering the costs of manufacturing," Buriak said in Science Daily.
As the demand for sustainable and cheaper alternatives continues to climb, the next step is proving the cells could provide a quick energy source that’s easily accessible. Buriak wants her paper-like solar to be nonintrusive and able to roll out like a blanket to provide instant power. She also envisions the cells stitched into wearable technology — think a backpack that could charge your phone.
Image: Flickr, David Blaikie