Scienceenvironment
Atomic motion could help push solar cells beyond conventional limits
Recent research from the Institute of Science Tokyo reveals that the bulk photovoltaic effect can persist even in materials with an average centrosymmetric crystal structure. This challenges long-held assumptions about photovoltaic generation. The study examined the van der Waals material CuCrP2S6 during its transition between structural phases. Researchers found that local atomic motions maintain the photoelectric effect without a traditional p-n junction. This discovery points toward novel design strategies for solar cells. By harnessing atomic-level dynamics, future energy technologies might transcend traditional efficiency barriers.