Spanish scientists from the Institute of Materials Science in Seville have developed a film that is less than 100 nanometers thick (for comparison: the diameter of a human hair is about 80,000 nm). This film performs two important functions: it protects the chemical structure of the perovskite cell and simultaneously increases light absorption, while also serving as a triboelectric surface that converts the kinetic energy of raindrops into electricity.
During experiments, it was found that a single raindrop can create a potential difference of up to 110 volts, which is quite sufficient to power small portable devices. This development is especially important for regions with prolonged rainy seasons, where traditional solar panels struggle to operate. The device can also power LEDs even in flooding conditions and withstand changes in temperature and humidity, as reported by IE.
Carmen Lopez noted: “Our work demonstrates the possibility of integrating photovoltaic technologies of perovskite solar cells with triboelectric nanogenerators in a thin-film configuration.” The film not only protects sensitive elements but also allows energy to be harvested from various environmental sources, paving the way for the creation of hybrid solar-rain panels. Potential areas of application include powering sensors on large structures such as bridges, meteorological sensors for precision agriculture, and Internet of Things devices.
