New Recycling Method: Scientists have developed a water-based, non-toxic method for recycling perovskite solar cells (PSCs), replacing hazardous organic solvents.
Addressing Toxicity: PSCs contain lead, a toxic element. The new recycling process mitigates this concern.
How it works: Involves using salts like sodium acetate to dissolve lead, sodium iodide to regenerate perovskite crystals, and hypophosphorous acid as a stabilizer. Ethanol and ethyl acetate are used for other cell components.
Circular Economy: The process aims to recover high-quality perovskite crystals and other materials for reuse, promoting a circular economy and minimizing waste. Recycled cells showed almost the same efficiency as cells using fresh materials in experiments.
Perovskite Solar Cells (PSCs): PSCs use perovskite crystal structures to convert sunlight into electricity.
Advantages & Challenges: PSCs offer high power conversion efficiency at a lower cost than silicon-based cells, but face challenges with lifespan and stability.
Carbon-Based PSCs (CPSCs): India is developing indigenous CPSCs to improve stability and reduce costs, with humidity and thermal stress being challenges.
Indian Innovation: Enhanced thermal stability is achieved by incorporating Guanidinium iodide (GuI), and moisture resistance via surface passivation using 5-amino valeric acid iodide (5-AVAI).
Recycling Benefits: Recycled components reduce the environmental impact, emissions, and costs associated with solar energy generation.
Life Cycle Assessment Needed: Integration of life cycle assessments is crucial to guarantee that research addresses significant environmental challenges effectively.
