SASKATOON – University of Saskatchewan Professor Ronald Steer has been awarded the annual Canadian Society for Chemistry’s John C. Polanyi Award for his research which is leading to new insights in the field of solar energy.
Steer and his team are attempting to make organic photovoltaics, also known as dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs), a more efficient source of electricity.
Typically organic solar cells are around 10 per cent efficient and Steer says they are making great strides towards increases the amount of sunlight that is absorbed and converted into usable power.
“We have the proof of principle and soon we’ll be at the stage of having working devices,” said Steer.
“If we can achieve even the slightest increase, even one or two per cent efficiency of these cells, it could be beneficial to everyone.”
The team is also working on incorporating tougher materials such as carbon nanotubes to create a more durable, longer-lasting cell.
Not only was Steer awarded an Earned Doctor of Science at the U of S he has also been in their Department of Chemistry since 1969.
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