Exciton Science project a Eureka Prize finalist
A research innovation project led by members of Exciton Science has been selected as a finalist in Australia’s premier national science awards, the Eureka Prizes.
The project, led by Exciton Science Chief Investigator Professor Jacek Jasieniak, focuses on windows capable of supplying electricity by serving as active-power generators. It is in contention for the Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology.
Working with Exciton Science Partner Investigator Dr Anthony Chesman of CSIRO, Jacek’s group in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Monash University have created semi-transparent solar cells made from metal halide perovskites.
The physical characteristics of perovskites mean they are very efficient at generating electricity while also being transparent, and they can be printed as very thin films, making them ideal candidates for integrated applications in buildings.
Researchers have also shown films made using metal halide perovskites can be “tuned” to achieve optimal balance between light transmission and power generation.
Modelling shows solar windows could produce up to 100% of the total electricity needs of a fully-glazed skyscraper, substantially reducing the building’s net CO2 emissions.
Future development work in the project will focus on translating laboratory-based production methods to scalable production suitable for window sizes commonly used in commercial construction.
Dr Jenny Zhou of Monash University’s Department of Civil Engineering is also part of the team nominated for the prize.
About the Eureka Prizes
The Eureka Prizes, presented annually by the Australian Museum, honour excellence across the areas of research and innovation, leadership, science engagement, and school science.
The Eureka Prize for Innovative Use of Technology is presented by ANSTO and awarded for an innovative application of a new or existing technology that has led to a significantly improved research outcome.
The Eureka Prize for Innovative Research in Sustainability is presented by the University of Sydney Faculty of Science, and is awarded for research that has produced innovative solutions to support ongoing and improved sustainability practices or policies
Winners of the Eureka Prizes for 2023 will be announced during a live broadcast event on Wednesday 23 August.
