Capable of charging a phone or even supporting a home's energy consumption, solar panels have become extremely necessary in Ukraine and are valued worldwide for their environmental friendliness. Scientists have made a breakthrough in the development of solar panels – they have made them transparent.
And this is not the only positive quality, tells in “Econnews”. It is claimed that the new panels can produce 1000 times more energy than standard ones. This innovation offers a new approach to the use of solar panels in everyday items such as windows, cars and clothing.
How it works
To realize the potential of TMD-based NISC, scientists focused on the interaction between indium tin oxide (ITO) — a widely used transparent conductor — and tungsten disulfide (WS₂), a photoactive material. This combination provides a visible transparency of about 70-79%, allowing the panels to be integrated into various surfaces without obstructing light.
Where it can be used
Near-infrared solar cells (NISCs) can be integrated into glass windows, car bodies, or even the frames of electronic devices. In architecture, they could revolutionize the appearance of buildings by turning large glass windows into electricity-generating surfaces, and tall buildings could become power plants. In electric vehicles, these elements could be built into the windshield or body of the car, which would help the car have a longer range without having to be charged in the usual way. Smart watches, fitness trackers, and implanted medical devices could be charged through transparent solar cells, rather than through charging cables.