Japan has released a solar panel technology which uses titanium to generate electricity 1000 times more efficiently than silicon-based panels. The newly developed solar power generation technology integrates titanium dioxide and selenium to achieve higher efficiency and reduce costs.
Researcher were able to improved the bonding strength between the different layers thus enhancing the energy conversion rate thus enabling higher electricity production from the same amount of sunlight.
However, the high energy requirements of titanium extraction operations historically kept its price point out of reach. Now, scientists at the University of Tokyo have developed a novel extraction process through the use of rare-earth metal yttrium which powers LED screens and superconductors. They combined molten titanium with yttrium to make an affordable titanium alloy which is almost free of oxygen impurities.
While this process is more cost-effective, the resulting product contains up to 1% yttrium, which could affect titanium’s durability and corrosion resistance, making it unsuitable for use in electronics and aerospace sector. Though, efforts are underway to minimize yttrium contamination while maintaining cost savings, potentially unlocking numerous applications for cheaper titanium.
Policymakers and industry leaders must support these advances through widespread implementation and further research investments. This pioneering work signifies a collective step towards a future where clean, efficient energy is accessible to all.
Reference- Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, Nature Communications, Interesting Engineering, Futurism, PV Magazine