Solar panels are known to be inefficient. They only transform 15%-20 % of the light that hits them into electricity.
The nanoporous silica shell from an algae species that thrive in cold Nordic seas is a material naturally designed to trap light so efficiently that algae can survive in this dark environment. When incorporated into solar cells, the light trapping ability of the solar cell is increased and its efficiency enhanced. The material is produced in a process where wastewater is treated and an organic biomass produced that is able to be utilised in a variety of applications beneficial for society.
• Environmentally-friendly produced natural nanomaterial.
• Increased efficiency of solar cells.
• Lower cost of solar energy.
