Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/solar-cell
In the ever-growing quest for sustainable energy solutions, solar power stands out as a beacon of hope. While silicon-based solar cells have dominated the market, a fascinating and rapidly advancing field is that of organic solar cells (OSCs). If you’re curious about this cutting-edge technology and how it can help us harvest solar energy, then Coursera’s ‘Organic Solar Cells – Theory and Practice’ course is an absolute must-take.
This specialized course provides a comprehensive understanding of OSCs, delving into the underlying theories and exploring the three key research areas: materials, stability, and processing. The instructors do an excellent job of demystifying complex concepts, making them accessible even to those without a deep background in chemistry or physics.
The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, starting with a foundational module on ‘Solar Cells and Life Cycle Analysis.’ Here, you’ll gain knowledge about solar cells as a renewable energy source, differentiate between various solar cell technologies and generations, and understand the crucial aspects of life cycle analysis, including embedded energy and energy payback time.
The core of the course lies in modules dedicated to ‘Organic and Polymer Solar Cells,’ ‘Materials in Solar Cells,’ ‘Stability and Degradation,’ and ‘Solar Cell Fabrication.’ In the ‘Organic and Polymer Solar Cells’ module, you’ll learn how to measure efficiency, understand the function of different layers within the cell, and even be ready to discuss potential applications. The ‘Materials’ module dives into the specifics of conjugated polymers, low band gap polymers, common polymerization methods, and acceptor materials, equipping you with the knowledge of what makes these cells tick.
Understanding the longevity of these devices is paramount, and the ‘Stability and Degradation’ module addresses this head-on, explaining degradation behaviors, decay curves, and relevant ISOS standards. Finally, the ‘Solar Cell Fabrication’ module provides insights into lab-scale techniques, comparing coating and printing methods, and detailing various fabrication processes.
While this course is specialized and not a general introduction to solar cells, it excels in its focused approach. If you’re a student, researcher, or industry professional interested in the potential of organic photovoltaics, this course offers invaluable knowledge and practical insights. It’s an investment in understanding the future of solar energy.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/solar-cell