Tiny grains of rice

A very big idea in solar power technology may be too small for the human eye to see! Last month, researchers announced that they created the tiniest solar array ever – measuring less than a quarter of the length of a grain of rice – but, amazingly, 11 volts of energy were harvested from the microscopic solar cells.

Are we talking about solar panels for doll houses?  Why create microscopic solar cells?

Actually, the organic materials from which the tiny solar cells are created can be used in numerous locations that receive sunlight exposure – literally painted onto the surfaces of telephones, automobiles and more.

The following video describes the possibilities:

Xiaomei Jiang is the leading researcher at the University of Florida.  She lead her team to the discovery, which opens up endless possibilities for solar energy use.  Ms. Jiang explained the application process of the microscopic solar cells:

“Because it is in a solution, you can design a special spray gun where you can control the size and thickness. You could produce a paste and brush it on.”

Jiang’s team even envisions the application onto clothing! You could literally “plug in” your Blackberry or cell phone to recharge in your pocket!

Flexible solar panels (example)

Why should we consider microscopic solar cells when solar panels work just fine?  In large part, this is because silcon-based solar panels are stiff and brittle, whereas a solution including microscopic solar cells is flexible – both in application and in use.

The research is proceeding at a (sunburn)-blistering pace.  Right now, the research team estimates that 20 microscopic solar cells can produce 7.8 volts of energy.  But that figure will rise in just a matter of months to twice that amount.

So, what exactly goes into microscopic solar cells?  I’m glad you asked.  It sounds straightforward, but for those less scientifically-inclined, I am sure there is a lot more to it that meets the microscope eye.  Jiang states that the cells are comprised of an an “organic polymer that has the same electrical properties as silicon wafers, but can be dissolved and applied to flexible materials.”  The secret ingredients of microscopic solar cells include carbon and hydrogen.

Remember the old question, “If a tree falls in the forest and no one hears it, does it make a sound?”  Well, that brings me to a similar question…. “If a tiny solar cell exists on surfaces and we cannot see it, can it generate electricity?”  Obviously, the answer is yes!

I just love learning about new solar technology, don’t you?