Researchers Use Metal Oxide to Develop Solar Cells

Researchers at the University of Oxford have developed new solar cells from a metal oxide available in toothpaste.

The research team headed by Henry Snaith of the university’s physics department integrated the metal oxide with a thin dye printed on glass to convert solar energy into electrical energy.

The glass can be manufactured in a wide range of transparent colors that can be used in cladding buildings and windows. Snaith said that the glass brings up more possibilities and potentials for building design. Since the production method utilizes widely available non-toxic substances, the amount of carbon emission can be significantly reduced when compared to competitive technologies. Snaith further said that the research team is working to enhance the efficiency of the solar cells.

Ollie Bennett of MiPower, a firm that deploys solar panels, commented that he has not witnessed anything similar like the new solar cells in the market. He further said that the new solar cell is an innovative idea and could well be a precursor for efficient solar cells.