Researchers Discover Molecules That Form Self-Creating Solar Panels

MIT researchers have discovered molecules that can assemble themselves to create a self-replicating solar panel. The research team used phospholipids to stick photoreactive molecules together in a uniform alignment within nanotubes. These molecules were then exposed to light and released electrons, while the nanotubes collected the resultant electrical current. Significantly, the scientists also found that the solar array can be disassembled and then reassembled with no loss in efficiency, unlike conventional solar panels that lose efficiency over time.

MIT News: “Solar cell, heal thyself”

[via Dvice]