Pompilio, M.; Ierides, I.; Cacialli, F. Biomimetic Approaches to “Transparent” Photovoltaics: Current and Future Applications. Molecules2023, 28, 180.
Pompilio, M.; Ierides, I.; Cacialli, F. Biomimetic Approaches to “Transparent” Photovoltaics: Current and Future Applications. Molecules 2023, 28, 180.
Pompilio, M.; Ierides, I.; Cacialli, F. Biomimetic Approaches to “Transparent” Photovoltaics: Current and Future Applications. Molecules2023, 28, 180.
Pompilio, M.; Ierides, I.; Cacialli, F. Biomimetic Approaches to “Transparent” Photovoltaics: Current and Future Applications. Molecules 2023, 28, 180.
Abstract
There has been a surge in the interest for (semi)transparent photovoltaics (sTPVs) in recent years, since the more traditional, opaque, devices are not ideally suited for a variety of innovative appli-cations spanning from smart and self-powered windows for buildings to those for vehicle inte-gration. Additional requirements for these photovoltaic applications are a high conversion effi-ciency (despite the necessary compromise to achieve a degree of transparency) and an aesthetical-ly pleasing design. One potential realm to explore in the attempt to meet such challenges is the bio-logical world, where evolution has led to highly efficient and fascinating light-management structures. In this mini-review, we explore some of the biomimetic approaches that can be used to improve both transparent and semitransparent photovoltaic cells, such as moth-eye inspired structures for improved performance and stability or tuneable, coloured, and semi-transparent devices inspired by beetles’ cuticles. Lastly, we will briefly discuss possible future developments for bio-inspired and potentially bio-compatible sTPVs.
Copyright:
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.