Australian researchers advance eco-friendly perovskite solar cell manufacturing

A Macquarie University-led project has achieved significant breakthroughs in developing industrially viable manufacturing methods for next-generation perovskite solar cells (PSCs), overcoming key barriers to commercial adoption.

The research team, headed by Professor Shujuan Huang and Dr Jincheol Kim, in collaboration with UNSW’s Dr DJ Kim, developed solar cell technology that addresses critical industry challenges while maintaining high performance.

With Australian Economic Accelerator (AEA) Seed funding support, the researchers created eco-friendly solvents that eliminate toxic materials from the manufacturing process while still achieving over 22 per cent energy efficiency. This innovation improves worker safety and reduces environmental impact.

“With the support of AEA Seed funding, we successfully synthesised nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots, which have greatly improved the efficiency and stability of our perovskite solar cells. This breakthrough has opened new avenues for commercial applications,” Professor Huang said.

The team also developed cost-effective electron transport materials (ETMs) using graphene quantum dots derived from natural fertilisers. These ETMs matched the 22 per cent efficiency benchmark while enhancing cell stability.

Another significant achievement was optimising slot-die coating methods for even material application, resulting in solar cell modules with efficiencies exceeding 16 per cent – among the best performances globally for this technology.

The project has generated potential patents for green perovskite ink and slot-die coating manufacturing techniques. Professor Huang’s team is now exploring additional AEA grant programs, such as Ignite or Innovate, to support further development and commercialisation.

These advancements in perovskite solar technology could complement existing silicon solar panels and contribute significantly to Australia’s carbon net-zero emissions goals by 2050.

Picture: credit AEA