A Self-Healing 'Skin' for Safer Solar Cells

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are a rising star in sustainable energy, yet they face two stubborn hurdles: inherent instability and the presence of toxic lead. While wrapping these cells in protective layers—a process called encapsulation—can help, outdoor wear and tear inevitably causes cracks that ruin the seal. Now, scientists have engineered a smart solution: a 'damage perception' encapsulant known as EP.

This material consists of alkoxy polyvinylimidazole bis(trifluoromethanesulphonyl)imide. It relies on dynamic ion aggregates to drive molecular chains to move and knit together. Remarkable for its speed, the polymer completely heals cracks within six minutes at 50°C. Beyond repair, it acts as a robust shield, sequestering more than 99% of toxic lead leakage even in poor weather.

Durability tests were equally promising. After 1,500 hours of damp heat exposure and 300 thermal cycles, the EP-encapsulated devices retained 95.17% and 93.53% of their initial efficiency, respectively. This self-healing armour could be key to making next-generation solar power commercially viable.