Synthesis and properties of Cerium-doped organic/silica xerogels: A potential UV filter for photovoltaic panels

Author(s)

Sandrini, Marcelo ; Gemelli, Jefferson Cristiano ; Gibin, Mariana Sversut ; Zanuto, Vitor Santaella ; Muniz, Robson Ferrari ; de Vicente, Fabio Simoes ; Belancon, Marcos Paulo

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Journal of Non-Crystalline Solids; v. 600, p. 7-pg., 2023-01-15.

Abstract

The UV-induced polymeric encapsulant degradation in the photovoltaic panel is a challenge in extending the operating lifetime of such devices. To overcome that, an anti-reflective coating material that blocks the UV incidence can be an alternative. In this sense, this work presents high optical quality GPTS/TEOS monolithic xerogels doped with cerium prepared by the sol-gel process. X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, and infrared spectroscopy results reveal an amorphous hybrid structure stable with the dopant concentration, up to 1 wt%. The undoped matrix shows a wide transmission window, and the cerium addition results in a redshift of the cut-off edge, from similar to 300 to 410 nm, and a slight reduction in reflectance. Moreover, all samples present a refractive index well matched with the ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) encapsulant, which minimizes reflectance losses. These results highlight the potential of the cerium-doped GPTS/TEOS system as a candidate for UV filter coating on photovoltaic panels. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 11/18149-5 - Study of Photosensitivity and photoluminescence in organically modified silicates films prepared by sol-gel
• Grantee: Fábio Simões de Vicente
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants