A pioneering study led by the University of Surrey, in collaboration with the National Physical Laboratory and the University of Sheffield, has unveiled a major advancement in the durability of perovskite solar cells — a promising alternative to conventional silicon-based solar technology. The findings, published in EES Solar (RSC, 2025), reveal that embedding aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃) nanoparticles significantly extends the operational lifespan of perovskite cells.

Perovskite solar cells are known for their high efficiency, lightweight design, and cost-effectiveness. However, a critical limitation has hindered their commercial viability: iodine leakage. This structural flaw leads to material degradation over time, reducing the cell’s performance and longevity. The new research offers a compelling solution—incorporating Al₂O₃ nanoparticles into the cell’s architecture to trap iodine and reinforce structural stability.

Under rigorous testing conditions involving high heat and humidity to simulate real-world stress, the modified cells demonstrated a tenfold increase in stability, maintaining optimal performance for over 1,530 hours (approximately two months), compared to just 160 hours in unmodified cells. This dramatic improvement is attributed to multiple mechanisms triggered by the alumina nanoparticles.

Firstly, the nanoparticles promote a more uniform perovskite layer, minimizing defects and boosting electrical conductivity. Additionally, they help form a protective 2D perovskite layer, which serves as an effective moisture barrier, further enhancing the cell’s resilience against environmental degradation.

Lead author Dr. Hashini Perera, a postgraduate researcher at Surrey’s Advanced Technology Institute, emphasizes that this innovation could be a key step toward commercializing next-generation solar panels. By solving one of the most persistent issues in perovskite technology, this study brings the solar industry closer to deploying more sustainable and long-lasting photovoltaic solutions.