Researchers Enhance Efficiency of Flexible Kesterite Solar Cells Using Alkali-Metal Regulation

Research has advanced the efficiency of flexible kesterite Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 solar cells by implementing a dual alkali-metal strategy. This method addresses phase segregation issues by incorporating sodium and lithium, promoting crystal growth and reducing detrimental secondary phases. Certified efficiencies reached 14.2% for flexible cells and 12.0% for larger modules, marking significant improvements in performance. The findings also have broader implications for multinary chalcogenide materials and renewable energy technologies.

Published Mar 21, 2026

Researchers enhanced the efficiency of flexible kesterite Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) solar cells using a dual alkali-metal strategy involving sodium and lithium. This approach mitigates phase segregation, a challenge that has historically limited performance.

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The incorporation of sodium promotes crystal growth, while lithium forms copper selenide, suppressing harmful tin selenide phases. The resulting flexible solar cells achieved a certified efficiency of 14.2%, and larger modules reached 12.0%.

This research provides insights applicable to other chalcogenide materials and could influence future photovoltaic technologies. The study demonstrated the dual strategy's effectiveness in maintaining mechanical robustness under stress and improving charge dynamics.