The PARASOL project is developing innovative protective coatings for photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells to improve the efficiency and stability of solar fuel production. By integrating metal oxide passivation layers with high-performance III-V semiconductors, the durability of the systems is increased while enabling efficient, non-assisted photoelectrocatalysis.
III-V semiconductors are considered promising photoabsorbers for solar fuel production, but are susceptible to corrosion in the electrolyte. To prevent this, PARASOL is developing durable metal oxide protective coatings that are combined with highly efficient solar cells. The decisive heterointerfaces are analyzed using state-of-the-art methods such as in-situ spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and synchrotron radiation. As part of the project, oxide layers are synthesized and characterized, selective catalysts are integrated and comprehensive tests are carried out under realistic operating conditions. The materials will be produced by renowned research institutions such as TU Ilmenau, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin and Fraunhofer ISE. All the technologies developed are scalable for industrial use.
PARASOL helps to significantly increase the service life and performance of photoelectrochemical cells. The protective layers developed enable the economically scalable production of CO2-free solar fuels that contribute to decarbonization and the energy transition. Through close cooperation with industrial partners, the research results can be transferred to commercial applications and used for a sustainable energy future.
