Research led by scientists at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) announced the findings of using non-toxic metals with a new approach to fabricate the capping layer of perovskite solar cells, making the cells more environmentally friendly while maintaining high conversion efficiency.
Since the first perovskite-based solar cell was published in 2009, scientists have strived to figure out new materials and manufacturing techniques to enhance the efficiency and stability of perovskite cells.
Another cause hindering commercialization is the environmental impact of the toxic elements in the cells. Perovskites can decompose when reacting with moisture and oxygen, exposed to light and heat, or used for an extended time. When the cell is damaged or discarded, the toxic heavy metal lead from the perovskite material and capping layer (coated onto the perovskite layer to protect the cell from environmental stresses and to boost its performance) can threaten the environment.