The new battery will be based on an energy storage system that relies on two hydrocarbons: norbornadiene (NBD) and tetracycloheptane (QC). This system results in a reaction that causes the molecule to convert to QC when light hits the NBD molecule. Researchers believe that this process produces energy densities similar to those of high-performance batteries. Scientists are investigating how to use or further improve the process to create the above-mentioned energy storage solar cells.
They are also working on a sub-study project that focuses on the catalytic and electrochemical release of solar energy stored in strained organic compounds.
The research team said it is not unthinkable to convert stored chemical energy directly into electricity. This vision has made it possible to build a “storage solar cell”.