A team of researchers has developed a new kind of thin solar cell that with over 2-fold efficiency over existing 2D transition metal dichalcogenide solar cells. The new material could, if taken to production, produce lightweight solar power for satellites and other spacecraft.

When it comes to providing energy for space exploration and settlements, traditional solar cells made of silicon or gallium arsenide are too heavy to be transported by rocket. To overcome this obstacle, scientists are exploring various lightweight alternatives, such as solar cells made of a thin layer of molybdenum selenide. These types of solar cells are classified as 2D transition metal dichalcogenide (2D TMDC) solar cells. While they tend to have much lower efficiencies when compared to silicon-based solar panels, they can produce more power for their weight (i.e., improved specific power).

“I think people slowly realize that 2D TMDCs are excellent photovoltaic materials, though not for terrestrial applications, but for applications that are mobile—more flexible, like spacebased applications,” says lead author and Device advisory board member Deep Jariwala of the University of Pennsylvania. “The weight of 2D TMDC solar cells is 100 times less than silicon or gallium arsenide solar cells, so suddenly these cells become a very appealing technology,” he added.

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