Liquid-Based Multijunction Molecular Solar Thermal Energy Collection Device

Photoswitchable molecules-based solar thermal energy storage system (MOST) can potentially be a route to store solar energy for future use. Herein, the use of a multijunction MOST device that combines various photoswitches with different onsets of absorption to push the efficiency limit on solar energy collection and storage is explored. With a parametric model calculation, it is shown that the efficiency limit of MOST concept can be improved from 13.0% to 18.2% with a double-junction system and to 20.5% with a triple-junction system containing ideal, red-shifted MOST candidates. As a proof-of-concept, the use of a three-layered MOST device is experimentally demonstrated. The device uses different photoswitches including a norbornadiene derivative, a dihydroazulene derivative, and an azobenzene derivative in liquid state with different MOSTproperties, to increase the energy capture and storage behavior. This conceptional device introduces a new way of thinking and designing optimal molecular candidates for MOST, as much improvement can be made by tailoring molecules to efficiently store solar energy at specific wavelengths.

Automated summary

The study explores the potential of a photoswitchable molecules-based solar thermal energy storage system (MOST) and uses a multijunction device combining various photoswitches to push the efficiency limit on solar energy collection and storage. Experimental demonstration of a three-layered MOST device with different photoswitches in liquid state shows the feasibility of increasing energy capture and storage behavior by tailoring molecules. This conceptual device introduces a new approach to optimize molecular candidates for MOST, showing that significant improvements can be made by efficiently storing solar energy at specific wavelengths.