Researchers use wood to create low-cost, long-lasting solar cells

To address the growing energy needs concerning renewable, clean, and sustainable solar energy, organic solar cells (OSCs) have garnered considerable scientific attention. This is due to their distinct advantages in the development of flexible and portable devices, including affordability, lightweight design, and the feasibility of large-scale, printable fabrication.

Research in this regard has now led to the development of reliable organic solar cells that use wood materials. A collaborative effort by a team of scientists from Linköping University and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) has demonstrated the potential of utilizing untreated kraft lignin derived from wood pulp to enhance solar cells’ environmental sustainability and reliability.