Fiber-Based Perovskite Solar Cells: POE Encapsulation vs Pb Leakage

Research Square (preprint)

Overview

A bioindicator study using *Pogonatherum crinitum* demonstrates that POE encapsulation reduces bioavailable Pb leakage from fiber-based perovskite solar cells to approximately 0.5 mg/mL after 90 days. This represents a reduction to around 10% of the levels found in unencapsulated control groups. The findings provide preliminary evidence that POE effectively retards the migration of lead into the surrounding environment.

In Depth

Key Findings

The study confirms that POE encapsulation significantly mitigates the release of Pb from fiber-based perovskite solar cells (PSCs). After 90 days of exposure across three different spatial configurations, the Pb concentration in plant-derived extracts for encapsulated groups was approximately 0.5 mg/mL. This value is roughly 10% of the concentration measured in unencapsulated control devices, indicating a strong protective effect provided by the POE layer.

Technical Details

Researchers utilized *Pogonatherum crinitum*, a perennial grass known for Pb tolerance and enrichment capacity, as a bioindicator. The experimental setup involved bundles of 30 PSC devices placed in three configurations: on the soil surface, at a depth of 15 cm near the pot base, or 25 cm from the plant in an elongated container. Samples of the inflorescence and leaf mixture were collected every 5 days, and Pb content was determined using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (FAAS).

The effectiveness of the POE barrier is attributed to its nonpolar polyolefin backbone, which creates a low-dielectric and low-free-volume environment. Because the polymer consists mainly of saturated C-C and C-H σ bonds, it lacks the active sites, electron donor-acceptor interactions, or Lewis acid-base coordination required to facilitate the hopping or stabilization of Pb 2+.

Background and Context

The use of *Pogonatherum crinitum* allows for the detection of “bioavailable” Pb signals rather than simple soaking solution measurements. The plant responds to Pb stress through rhizosphere activation—altering acid phosphatase and urease activities—and intracellular complexation via organic acids. However, the study notes that Pb uptake is influenced by soil pH, organic matter, and microbial communities, meaning the assay serves as a laboratory bioindicator rather than a full ecotoxicological assessment.

Significance and Outlook

This methodology converts the technical question of device leakage into a measurable environmental exposure scenario. While the POE layer is not absolutely impermeable, it substantially retards Pb migration over the experimental timescale, reducing the risk of lead accumulating in the surrounding ecosystem.

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