A solar cell that breathes in moisture for energy generation. (February 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nandakumar, Dilip Krishna; Vaghasiya, Jayraj V.; Yang, Lin; Zhang, Yaoxin; Tan, Swee Ching
• Is Part Of: Nano energy. Volume 68(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-02
• Subjects: Super-hygroscopic hydrogel -- Self-sustainable dehumidification -- Photoelectrochemical cell -- Atmospheric moisture capture -- Breathable solar cell; Nanoscience -- Periodicals; Nanotechnology -- Periodicals; Nanostructured materials -- Periodicals; Power resources -- Technological innovations -- Periodicals; Nanoscience; Nanostructured materials; Nanotechnology; Power resources -- Technological innovations; Periodicals; 621.042
• DOI: 10.1016/j.nanoen.2019.104263
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2211-2855

Abstract

Abstract: Aiming at energy issues, alternative energy sources to fossil fuels such as solar energy, wind energy and wave energy have been well studied. However, ubiquitous atmospheric moisture as a possible alternative has not been seriously explored. Comprising of nearly 13 trillion kiloliters of water, atmospheric moisture can be best exploited as a sustainable energy resource and an abundant hydrogen source. In our present study, we have exploited moisture absorption from the air and ensuing conversion into electricity. To effectuate moisture absorption and energy conversion, a hybrid solar device was constructed by integrating tailored hygroscopic materials with photosystems stimulated by metal free organic dyes. The hygroscopic materials absorb water from humid atmospheres, serving as the source of neutral water for the photoelectrochemical reaction, thereby transducing atmospheric humidity directly into electricity and hydrogen, in the presence of light. We have also reported a significant drop in the humidity levels of a confined space from 80% to 40%. This hybrid system, when in operation, effectuates simultaneous dehumidification and a photocurrent generation of 240μA/cm 2 under ambient indoor light. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: We have exploited ubiquitous ambient humidity as a potential source for energy harvesting application. Integration of a photosystem to a super-hygroscopic hydrogel to perform concurrent dehumidification and power generation. The fabricated device ensues a single step conversion of ambient humidity into electricity. Generation of a stable photocurrent of 240µA/cm 2 under ambient indoor light, whilst reducing humidity from 80% to 40%. This device performs energy-free dehumidification and power generation concurrently.