Chemistry
The Chemistry Behind Perovskite Solar Cells and Their Stability
Quick fact
In just over a decade, perovskite solar cells have reached efficiencies comparable to traditional silicon cells, yet a single layer of water molecules can break them down irreversibly.
Why this is interesting
Solar panels made from a crystal structure known as perovskite can convert sunlight to electricity with amazing efficiency—but they also degrade in hours or days when exposed to moisture. Why would such a promising technology be so fragile?