Graetzel cells are implanted in an iPad keyboard

Logitech has selected dye solar cells born right here on campus. The technological choice of this world leader demonstrates both the maturity of this invention and that it is market-ready. After several years developing its industrial application, these particularly innovated solar cells can be implanted into products such as portable tablets. This marks a new stage for the discovery of Michael Graetzel of the Laboratory of Photonics and Interfaces.

A Bright Idea

Not only are the dye solar cells relatively inexpensive, but also they are of particular interest for their finesse and efficiency: they work equally well in ambient light as in artificial light and can produce sufficient energy even without directly facing a light source. These characteristics make them ideal for developing essential accessories to use in current nomadic technologies.

The performance of these solar cells comes from an operating principal that mimics photosynthesis. The light primes and maintains the transfer of electrons in the dye cell, producing a current. Just as with plants, this process has the advantage of being able to operate easily, even in a thin or transparent layer. It is therefore possible to combine the layers and insert them in small products for highly efficient results.

Link:
http://lpi.epfl.ch/