You’re at the beach, on a trail or in camp and a battery cell is over? Thanks to a new solar power technology, this cannot be a big problem. Photovoltaic cells in a spray, applied to any surface, solar energy can be cheaper and more accessible.

At least that is what they expect Brian Korgel and his colleagues at the University of Texas, United States, with technology Spray-deposited CuInSe2 nanocrystal photovoltaics published article in the journal Energy & Environmental Science. The technique works by scattering of solar cells by means of a spray (which we hope does not contain harmful gases to the ozone layer) and can be used on almost any surface, says the New Scientist website, from plastic to fabrics.

The researchers developed a means of reducing the costs of producing solar cells with a type of paint containing semiconductor nanocrystals composed of copper, indium and selenium. Korgel says the method of application is very similar to painting a wall, only that the “ink” has a purpose.

One application is suggested by the scientist in areas of military barracks, for example, causing them to generate electricity (utilities beyond their natural course). Moreover, the technology can be applied in everyday situations, such as tissues, backpacks or even roofs of cars.

However, Korgel recognizes that much water will roll under the bridge to create something commercially viable research. Today, the solar cell spray still has many technical hurdles to be overcome (for example, where I connect the electrodes?) And presents, even in the laboratory, a very low efficiency, around 3%.

The production and marketing of this type of solar cell depends on a dramatic improvement of efficiency and this is the next step for the group in Texas.

Via: New Scientist.