Wood-Based Organic Solar Cells: A Reliable, Eco-Friendly Source?

Dec 7, 2023 02:53 PM ET

• Organic solar cells made of wood pulp? Researchers have developed a way to increase the stability and sustainability of the solar cell using kraft lignin, creating hydrogen bonds for increased performance. Unlock the future of renewable energy with this environmentally friendly technology!

Researchers at Linköping University and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) have developed an organic solar cell using kraft lignin, a material sourced directly from wood pulp. The study, published in the journal Advanced Materials, shows that kraft lignin can be used to increase the stability and sustainability of the solar cell. The cathode interface layer of the solar cell is made of the wood material, which can create hydrogen bonds that help to stabilize the solar cell. Organic solar cells are usually plastic-based, but this new material could make them more environmentally friendly. The technology is already being used for indoor applications and could eventually be scaled up for larger energy supply applications.

Can Kraft Lignin Stabilize Organic Solar Cells?

• Kraft lignin can be used to create a stable and sustainable organic solar cell.
• The cathode interface layer of the solar cell is made from kraft lignin, which helps to stabilize it.
• This new material could replace plastic-based organic solar cells, making them more environmentally friendly.
• Kraft lignin-based organic solar cells can already be used for indoor applications, and could potentially be scaled up for larger energy supply applications.
• Researchers have also found that the use of kraft lignin can increase the lifetime of the solar cells, and reduce the cost of production.
• The technology is still in its early stages of development, and further research is needed to truly understand its potential for solar power applications.