A novel approach to enhance performance, stability and longevity of the solar cells by mitigating UV-induced degradation with monolayer − Boosted nano-TiO2 coatings

This study investigates the potential of 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H-perfluorooctyltrichlorosilane (FOTS) coated titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles (FOTS + TiO₂) to protect silicon solar cells from UV radiation damage. UV induced damages significantly reduces efficiency and lifespan, and causes environmental issues such as corrosion and water ingress. FOTS + TiO₂ layers were applied onto sheets of ethylene–vinyl acetate (EVA) using a cost-effective dip-coating process. We prepared PV mini-devices with single, double, and triple coatings by dipping the EVA sheets multiple times in a solution of isooctane and FOTS + TiO₂, with intervals of a few minutes between dips. The characteristics and integrity of the FOTS + TiO₂ nanoparticles and their coatings on EVA substrates were analyzed using advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. Our investigation revealed that a single dip coating of FOTS + TiO₂ effectively covered the surface, while double and triple coatings led to agglomeration. The presence of TiO₂ nanoparticles enhanced UV radiation absorption, reducing the transmission of UV radiation to the solar cells. The PV mini-devices were tested using both standard and accelerated solar simulators. The application of FOTS + TiO₂ coatings demonstrated promising stability improvements, with single and double-coated PV mini-devices showing stability increases of 34 % and 29 %, respectively. Notably, the use of FOTS + TiO₂ coatings extended the durability of the solar cells from 4.1 years to 5.6 years (minimum). These findings suggest that FOTS + TiO₂ coatings offer a cost-effective and efficient method for enhancing the stability, fill factor, and longevity of silicon solar cells.