According to researchers at the University of Arizona, producing solar cells could one day be as simple as applying a liquid to a sheet of plastic and waiting for the cells to “assemble” themselves.

The liquid will be composed of organic molecules that will collect on the plastic surface in a way that forms an organized coating that will be able to efficiently convert solar energy into electricity. If the right organic molecules can be created, the simple production process could result in inexpensive solar cells.

The research is being funded partially by the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Publication date: 11/26/2001