Microwave tech revolutionizes perovskite cell manufacturing
A breakthrough in perovskite cell manufacturing could be on the horizon, thanks to technological advancements that replace traditional hot plate methods with innovative microwave technology.
The process, known as ‘annealing’, involves a heat treatment that alters the physical and chemical properties of a material, making it more pliable and less rigid.
Swift Manufacturing Process
A collaborative team of researchers from Macquarie University, the University of New South Wales (UNSW), and solar startup Halocell Energy is utilising this new technique to significantly reduce the fabrication time of perovskite cells. Previously taking 30 minutes on a hot plate, the process now only requires 30 seconds in a specially designed microwave, as reported by PV Magazine Australia.
Dr Binesh Puthen Veetti and his team at Macquarie University pioneered the microwave technology, aiming to ‘cook’ the cells using microwave radiation that selectively heats the silicon component.
Enhanced Efficiency and Sustainability
By implementing this innovative approach in a commercial setting with Halocell Energy, the team is striving to triple the annealing rate while cutting energy consumption by 50%, according to Veetti’s interview with the magazine.
Although not as efficient as traditional ovens, the microwave method offers significant energy savings during the manufacturing process. Additionally, the microwave treatment facilitates the easier removal of the plastic coating heat-treated onto the silicon plate.
Unlike the conventional oven method, which often led to landfilling or energy-intensive processes for removing the coating, the microwave technology allows for targeted heating of specific areas of the panel. This precision heating is particularly beneficial for intricate structures like the newer heterojunction technology that combines crystalline and amorphous silicon.
Veetti highlighted that the cleaner environment provided by the microwave process results in reduced contamination, further enhancing the sustainability aspect of the manufacturing process.
Overcoming Challenges
While transitioning perovskite technology from lab settings to practical applications remains a significant challenge, researchers are also addressing production and quality control issues, including those related to the Macquarie microwave technology.
The perovskite family of solar materials shows immense potential for developing flexible, lightweight solar modules that are cost-effective and as efficient as silicon-based photovoltaic materials.
However, several obstacles hinder the commercial competitiveness of perovskite-based solar cells, such as the time-consuming task of optimising material variations for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and durability.
In a recent development, Australian researchers leveraged machine learning to expedite the creation, replication, and testing of new perovskite solar cells within weeks, significantly reducing the time and effort traditionally required.
Furthermore, California-based company Caelux, in collaboration with UNSW, is simplifying the testing process for individual perovskite solar cells at their 100-megawatt manufacturing facility. UNSW’s ACDC Research Group is spearheading a project funded by ARENA to develop high-throughput inspection techniques, set to conclude in 2028.
Due to the nature of perovskite cell production involving the deposition of liquid inks between films, ensuring uniform quality and addressing potential energy production issues poses a challenge. Companies like Caelux are keen on integrating ACDC’s technology into their production lines to streamline quality control processes.
