14 May 2026
On 13 May 2026, DEMaC at the University of Aveiro hosted the lecture “Organic molecules for solar cells: from the laboratory flask to the impact on technology,” presented by Kristina Kantminien, Associate Professor at Kaunas University of Technology (Lithuania).
Organized by CICECO researcher Andrei Salak and Rui Silva from DEMaC, the event brought together researchers and students for a scientific overview of the molecular strategies driving advances in solar energy conversion.
During the lecture, Kristina Kantminien explored the technological evolution of solar cells, from the first generation of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC), following the landmark 1991 publication by Brian O’Regan and Michael Grätzel, to solid-state dye-sensitized systems and the latest developments in perovskite photovoltaics.
A central focus was the work of the Kaunas University of Technology research group Synthesis of Organic Semiconductors, led by Prof. Vytautas Getautis, which has developed multiple classes of organic hole-transporting materials (HTMs) for perovskite solar cells capable of matching or surpassing the benchmark Spiro-OMeTAD.
Particular attention was given to the group’s internationally recognised advances in self-assembled monolayer (SAM) materials for p-i-n perovskite solar cells. These materials use phosphonic acid-functionalised organic molecules to create highly efficient HTM layers on indium tin oxide (ITO) surfaces, contributing to improved device performance and technological scalability.
The session also addressed ongoing challenges in designing electron-transporting materials for tandem perovskite–silicon solar cells, an area considered critical for the next generation of high-efficiency photovoltaic technologies.
Kristina Kantminien, whose research spans medicinal chemistry and solar energy materials, highlighted how the design and synthesis of organic heterocyclic compounds can translate from laboratory-scale molecular innovation into practical technological impact.
By connecting fundamental chemistry with advanced materials engineering, the lecture reinforced the importance of international scientific collaboration in accelerating sustainable energy solutions.
Related Articles
Researchers
Andrei Salak
Principal Researcher
Rui Ramos Ferreira e Silva
Associate Professor
We use cookies for marketing activities and to offer you a better experience. By clicking “Accept Cookies” you agree with our cookie policy. Read about how we use cookies by clicking "Privacy and Cookie Policy".