American scientists have for the first time a cross between the solar cells with a rechargeable battery. The scientists published their achievement at Ohio State University (USA) page, write the journal Nature Communications.
The invention solves the old problem of solar energy: energy losses associated with the movement of electrons from the photovoltaic external battery (destination reached about 80 percent of particles). The new unit light is converted directly into electrical energy by a photocell, which allows save all the electrons.
The biggest obstacle to the development of a new device, the design has to be able to allow air to enter the Creation: Modules are usually created from solid semiconductor panels that are air tight to the inside of the battery. For this purpose, was used titanium mesh, which have been grown on titanium oxide rods. Weather easily fall through the grid, while the rods "catch" the light of the sun.
The first electrode to form a grid panel. Researchers placed underneath a thin layer of porous carbon fiber (the second electrode) and a plate of lithium (third). The electrode was inserted in the electrolyte layer - for the transport of electrons in both directions.
The researchers say their invention reminds breathing battery. Project manager Yiying Wu believes that the new facility can reduce solar cell manufacturing costs by about 25 percent.
