A photo-electrochemical cell with an efficiency greater than 20%.

July 21, 2023

Rice University researchers converted sunlight into hydrogen with an efficiency of 20.8%. To achieve this brilliant result, they employed a device that combines next-generation halide perovskite semiconductors and electrocatalysts.
Previous photo-electrochemical cell prototypes were characterized by low efficiencies and high costs. This new photo-electrochemical cell, built in the laboratory of chemical and biomolecular engineer Aditya Mohite, in addition to being more efficient, uses a very cheap semiconductor material: halide perovskite, which however is extremely unstable in water. The solution found was the creation of an anti-corrosion barrier that isolates the semiconductor from the water and allows the transfer of electrons. To allow both functions, this barrier is formed by two layers: one to block water and one to create a good electrical contact between the perovskite layers and the protective layer.

Source: Rice University