Can a photovoltaic material be used for flexible solar cells?

In general, if a photovoltaic material can be deposited onto a substrate at temperatures below 300 °C, the material can potentially be used in fabricating flexible solar cells. Several types of active materials, such as a-Si:H, CIGS, small organics, polymers, and perovskites, have broadly been investigated for flexible solar cell application.

Are flexible photovoltaics (PVs) beyond Silicon possible?

Recent advancements for flexible photovoltaics (PVs) beyond silicon are discussed. Flexible PV technologies (materials to module fabrication) are reviewed. The study approaches the technology pathways to flexible PVs beyond Si. For the previous few decades, the photovoltaic (PV) market was dominated by silicon-based solar cells.

Which materials are used for flexible PV devices?

To date, metal foil, ultrathin glass, and plastic have been suggested as alternate flexible substrate materials (Table 1). Among them, plastic (polymer) substrates have been widely used for conventional flexible PV devices.

Will flexible PV panels be commercialized?

With rapid progress in recent years in new material systems, such as organic semiconductors and metal halide perovskites, flexible PV panels are expected to be commercialized in many more future marketable products. Already the revenue share of thin-film cells has exceeded 25% of the total PV market.

What is flexible PV technology?

Flexible PV technologies require highly functional materials, compatible processes, and suitable equipment. The highlighting features of flexible PV devices are their low weight and foldability. Appropriate materials as substrates are essential to realize flexible PV devices with stable and excellent performance.

Can plastic substrates be used for flexible PV devices?

Among them, plastic (polymer) substrates have been widely used for conventional flexible PV devices. Plastic substrates have many advantages, such as good optical transmittance in the visible range, low cost, lightweight, and a simple design. Recently, many studies have focused on the use of plastic materials for flexible circuits [19, 20].