Gdańsk University of Technology Analyze Outdoor Stability of Perovskite Solar Cells Using infinityPV Source Measure Unit
Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are a promising technology for next-generation photovoltaics, but their long-term stability under real-world conditions remains a critical challenge. In a new study, researchers from Gdańsk University of Technology and National Taiwan University used infinityPV’s MPPT Source Measure Unit to evaluate the outdoor stability of semitransparent PSCs under ISOS-O-3 conditions.
The team aimed to identify degradation mechanisms under varying seasonal conditions, compare outdoor degradation with controlled laboratory tests, and analyze electrical losses using light-intensity-dependent measurements and drift-diffusion modeling. By leveraging the SMU’s high-precision MPPT tracking, the researchers could continuously monitor and extract maximum power from the solar cells, ensuring realistic operating conditions.
The Source Measure Unit was used to evaluate the outdoor stability of semitransparent Perovskite Soalr Cells under ISOS-O-3 conditions.
Key Findings
The research revealed that seasonal and environmental factors significantly impact the stability of perovskite solar cells. During the summer season, the cells retained 84% of their initial power conversion efficiency after 1,150 hours but degraded more rapidly due to higher temperatures and irradiance. In contrast, the fall season showed a slower degradation rate, with 77% of the initial efficiency retained after 3,100 hours, attributed to lower light intensity and temperature fluctuations.
Light-induced degradation was identified as the primary cause of performance loss, leading to significant reductions in short-circuit current. Temperature and humidity initially improved performance by reducing charge-extraction losses but later contributed to gradual declines in key photovoltaic parameters. Bulk defect formation and reduced charge carrier mobility were also highlighted as key contributors to long-term degradation.
With 20 independently tunable LED channels covering 385–1300 nm, the ISOSun Pro Solar Simulator accurately reproduces indoor, outdoor, and AM1.5G spectra across illuminated areas of up to 1000 cm².
How the Source Measure Unit Was Used
“External Quantum Efficiency (EQE) curves of the devices were measured using an EQE system (M250, Optel Opole) equipped with a Keithley 6485 source meter and an SM1PD2A UV-enhanced silicon photodiode (Thorlabs). The photocurrent–voltage (J–V) characteristics were recorded using a source meter (infinityPV) under 100 mW cm2 illumination from an AM1.5G solar simulator (450 W lamp, Optel Opole) equipped with an AM1.5G filter (Sciencetech). The light intensity was calibrated using a CalCell Reference Device from infinityPV. To apply the light-intensity-modulated technique, a set of filters was used to obtain 1, 0.5, 0.1, 0.01 and 0.001 suns.”
What This Means for Your Research
This study demonstrates the value of infinityPV’s Source Measure Unit with MPPT for solar cell research. The unit’s 16-bit resolution and 4-quadrant operation ensure high-accuracy measurements, even in challenging conditions. Its multi-channel testing capability allows for efficient monitoring of multiple devices, while seamless integration with environmental sensors enables comprehensive data collection.
The flexibility of the Source Measure Unit, with both low-power and high-power variants, supports a wide range of research needs. Its synchronous and asynchronous modes are particularly useful for studying multijunction devices and maintaining independent control over each channel. The user-friendly touchscreen interface and free software updates further enhance its usability, making it a reliable tool for advancing photovoltaic research.
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Peer-Reviewed Studies Featuring infinityPV Equipment
Compact solar simulator covering 385–1300 nm with 20 selectable wavelengths over areas up to 1000 cm². Delivers up to 7 suns intensity with up to class A+A+A+ uniformity. Fully compatible with the infinityPV MPPT SMU series and a range of optional environmental accessories, including sample holders, Rh/T probes, photodiodes, and spectrometers.