Purdue University Scientists Create New Class of Solar Cells that ‘Self-Repair’

Jan 13, 2011

Novel solar cells were developed using carbon nanotubes and DNA

Photoelectrochemical cells contain chromophores (light-absorbing dyes), and these molecules eventually degrade after prolonged exposure to sunlight. Purdue researchers, led by Professor Jong Hyun Choi, have created a new technology that prevents this problem- a process similar to photosynthesis-by continuously replacing photo-damaged dyes with new ones. The novel solar cells use strands of DNA anchored to a platform of CNTs, which have been engineered to recognize and attach to the chromophores. This new technology could someday lead to photoelectrochemical cells able to operate at infinite full capacity.

↑ Back to TechConnect News™

---