PHASe-transition IONics for sustainable photovoltaics

Objective

Indoor environments - such as offices, homes, and smart devices - often lack a reliable, self-sustaining power source, forcing us to rely on disposable batteries. My work tackles this challenge by examining fundamental scientific principles that govern how phase-change materials (PCMs) can be combined with dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) to capture ambient light more efficiently. Unlike conventional solar cells designed for strong outdoor sunlight, DSSCs optimally convert low-intensity indoor lighting into electricity. However, they still face obstacles - namely, heat sensitivity and inefficient charge transport under fluctuating indoor temperatures. I plan to synthesize and study molecularly tailored PCMs - compounds that repeatedly melt and solidify at modest temperatures - investigating how these transformations help regulate a solar cell’s internal temperature and facilitate ion/electron flow within the device. Using advanced spectroscopy and microscopy, I will pinpoint the exact ways in which a partially molten PCM may stabilize or enhance charge carriers in DSSCs, thereby boosting their overall performance and extending their operational lifespan. By integrating this adaptive material into indoor PV modules, the project delivers a robust, self-optimising power source tailored for low-illumination environments and the next generation of edge-AI sensors. Ultimately, this fundamental research aligns with the EU’s commitment to groundbreaking science, paving the way for more reliable, greener technology in our everyday lives.