ENERGY APPLICATION
Quantum Dot & Nano PV
Ultrasonic spray coating for quantum dot solar cells, perovskite photovoltaics, and nanomaterial-based luminescent solar concentrators with gentle, uniform deposition that preserves nanocrystal properties.
The Challenge
Quantum dot and perovskite solar cells require uniform deposition of colloidal nanocrystals and nano-oxide coatings over large areas. Conventional spin coating and doctor blading cannot scale beyond small substrates, while aggressive spray methods damage sensitive nanocrystals, reduce quantum yields, and create thin spots or wasteful material runoff.
Our Solution
MicroSpray ultrasonic nozzles deliver a fine mist of nano-ink that ensures even coverage on solar panels and LSC modules without damaging sensitive nanocrystals. The low-impact spray preserves photoluminescent properties because the process avoids high shear forces, while precise layer thickness control enables multi-layer solar cell architectures from lab samples to meter-scale panels.
Why Ultrasonic Spray?
- ✓Defect-free thin films from quantum dot inks on large-area substrates
- ✓Low-impact spray preserves nanocrystal photoluminescent properties and quantum yields
- ✓Precise thickness control from tens of nanometers to microns per layer
- ✓Scalable from lab samples to meter-scale panels without loss of uniformity
- ✓Contact-free coating suitable for flexible and curved PV devices
- ✓Conformal encapsulation layers (TiO₂, graphene oxide) protect perovskite films from moisture and thermal stress
- ✓Compatible with colloidal quantum dots (CdS, PbS), perovskite precursors, and nano-oxide coatings
- ✓Eliminates pinholes and aggregates that cause local efficiency drop-offs in QD and perovskite cells
- ✓Minimal material waste compared to spin coating, where excess solution is discarded
Supporting Research
Peer-reviewed publications and technical literature relevant to this application area. Links open the publisher's site.
- Producing Quantum Dots by Spray Pyrolysis
K. Banger, M. H. Jin, A. Hepp — NASA Glenn Research Center
NASA Tech Briefs, August 2006 (report LEW-17444, NASA Technical Reports Server) ·
NASA Glenn describes forcing quantum dots to form in a narrow size range by spraying the precursor solution through an ultrasonic nozzle, so that dot size is set by droplet size, with average droplet size scaling inversely with ultrasonic frequency to the 2/3 power.
Recommended Equipment
MicroStream™ Nozzle
Ultra-low flow rates for precise deposition of expensive quantum dot inks
View details →Scale your quantum dot or perovskite PV process from lab to production. Contact us today.
Let's discuss your specific coating requirements.