When it comes to the topic of producing renewable energy, solar cells have been around for ages. Traditionally, plastic has not been part of the production process, and has only played a secondary role, ie; as part of the manufactured materials that make up the solar cell machine. However, lately, there is a growing need for a sustainable and cost-effective plastics solution. Advancement in the normal formation of solar cells may be the answer.
Plastic solar cells are currently being developed and tested and are becoming a major feature in the solar energy industry because of their incredible properties such as cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and easy survival.
According to a study by a team of scientists from Stony Brook University and the US Department of Energy’s Brookhaven National Laboratory, solar cells were repaired by supplementing polystyrene, a standard polymer that is not synthesized.
A new generation of solar cells has been developed by researchers in which plastic acts as a photovoltaic asset. Although there have been several advances recently, the latest study has resulted in a significant leap.
For example, researchers have found a way to apply molecules to particular polymers that have been developed to create nanosystems. The result? A reduced cost of electricity and quick and smooth functionality.
In addition, as plastics are lightweight, flexible, and soft, they can be easily laid on an array of surfaces. These plastic solar cells are also expected to be less expensive and in the future, can even be more accessible to the public.