New record for carbon nanotube based solar cells

The team, from the University of Surrey's Advanced Technology Institute, has reported a new material consisting of polymer-wrapped carbon nanotubes with a unique combination of properties related to light capture, efficient use of electrical energy and manufacturability. Project leader Professor Ravi Silva believes the material could replace commonly used polymers, which have limited lifetimes due to moisture absorption. The potential of this material has already been demonstrated by the construction of a solar cell with a record power conversion efficiency of 7.6% - 35% higher than previous efforts. In addition to the application in solar cells, Prof Silva says the new material may find applications in light emitting devices and displays, sensors, and printable electronics for tags. He noted: "The combination of organic materials with nanotechnology is starting to look very promising for electronic and photonic devices and systems with better performance or new capabilities. "It is only by combining the expertise of researchers specialising in material synthesis, device production, advanced characterisation and theoretical modelling that this new landscape of materials can by fully explored and the benefits realised."