Somenath Mitra works on flexible solar cell technology
Flexible solar panels may be one of the most exciting developments in solar technology. Now, paint on solar cells could take that idea to the next level. Imagine being able to literally coat a building or rooftop with solar sheets that can take energy from the sun and convert it to clean, free electricity!
Somenath Mitra, a professor of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, is working on developing a solar cell derived from polymers that could be used to power just about all aspects of our lives. Mr. Mitra holds give patents and is widely published in the field of chemistry. His pioneering solar cell research holds great promise.
For a brief explanation of the carbon nanotube solar technology, this video is helpful:
Instead of constructing typical solar cells of silicon, polymers dissolved in a solvent creates a “paint” or coating that can be applied to any surface – from homes to offices to cars! It’s inexpensive and versatile. Dr. Mitra explains:
When sunlight falls on an organic solar cell, the energy generates positive and negative charges. If the charges can be separated and sent to different electrodes, then a current flows. If not, the energy is wasted. But if you link cells electronically and form what is called a panel, like the ones currently seen on most rooftops, then you’ve got something. The size of both the cell and panels vary. Cells can range from 1 millimeter to several feet; panels have no size limits.
This breakthrough technology could result in a paradigm shift in how we perceive and use solar power. Imagine use of tiny solar cells with a carbon nanotube complex, 50,000 times smaller than a human hair. Now, add the fact that conduction is thousands of times more effective than along any electric wire.
Researchers believe that, eventually these solar cells will be so inexpensive and ubiquitous that people will literally print out sheets of solar cells on home-based inkjet printers using the solar paint “ink.” The produce can then be applied to any outdoor surface for an affordable way to tap into free solar energy.
I am eagerly awaiting that day. It will happen within the next decade!
Tags: carbon nanotube, flexible solar panels, solar cell polymer, solar paint, solar sheets, solar technology
