Molybdenum Foil in Solar Energy and Hydrogen Energy: Key Applications and Future Prospects
As global demand for renewable energy surges, molybdenum foil (Mo foil) is emerging as a critical material in advancing solar and hydrogen technologies. With its unique properties-high thermal stability,eexcellent conductivity, and corrosion resistance—molybdenum foil is poised to revolutionize energy systems.
Molybdenum foil in solar energy
1. Photovoltaic cell electrode
High efficiency thin film solar cells: Ultra-thin molybdenum foil (thickness < 50 μm) serves as an excellent back contact electrode in CIGS (Copper Indium Gallium selenide) solar cells, improving light absorption and electron transport efficiency.
Lightweight design: Molybdenum strips have a density of 10.2 g/cm3 (half that of tungsten), enabling lightweight solar modules and reducing transportation and installation costs for roof and portable systems.
2. Durability in harsh environments
The oxidation resistance of molybdenum foil ensures the long-term stability of desert and coastal solar farms, where high temperatures and humidity degrade traditional materials.
Molybdenum foil in hydrogen energy
1. Fuel cell module
Catalyst support in pemfc: Molybdenum strips serve as a durable substrate for platinum catalysts in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (pemfc), improving reaction kinetics and extending battery life. The experiment showed that the degradation rate of catalyst was reduced by 30% in 5000 cycles.
Bipolar plate coating: The corrosion resistance of molybdenum foil makes it an ideal protective coating on stainless steel bipolar plates, reducing hydrogen penetration in acidic environments.
2. High temperature electrolysis of green hydrogen
In solid oxide electrolytic cells (soec), molybdenum strips are used in interconnectors and collectors due to their ability to withstand temperatures in excess of 800°C. Electrolysis efficiency is increased by 25% compared to nickel-based alternatives.
3. Photochemical water decomposition
Recent studies have shown that molybdenum sulfide (MoS2) nanosheets grown on molybdenum foil substrates can achieve a low overpotential of 120 mV, thus outperforming conventional electrodes. This innovation connects solar and hydrogen production.
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