Second photovoltaic prototype for textile ceramic technology: The perovskite glass solar brick

Abstract

Textile Ceramic Technology (TCT) is an innovative industrialized dry-construction system that incorporates a stainless-steel wire mesh as a structural framework for embedding ceramic tiles. This research aims to integrate photovoltaic (PV) solar cells into the TCT framework, creating a system capable of efficiently constructing industrialized photovoltaic envelopes that can cover large surfaces in a timely manner. The selected PV material is perovskite, chosen for its key advantages: low cost, lightweight nature, and the ability to be coloured. These properties not only enhance energy generation but also provide aesthetic possibilities. The versatility of the TCT system allows for a wide range of architectural designs based on a fundamental modular element—the brick—facilitating diverse configurations. This synergy between perovskite technology and the adaptable nature of TCT opens new opportunities for creating visually appealing and energy-efficient building envelopes. This article presents the second prototype of the solar brick within the TCT framework, aimed at improving both the mechanical strength of the unit and the photovoltaic efficiency of the perovskite cells compared to the initial prototype. The article outlines the design process of this second prototype, from conceptualization through fabrication, followed by an experimental testing campaign to evaluate its structural and energy performance. The results contribute to advancing TCT as a scalable and aesthetically adaptable solution for sustainable architecture, combining rapid installation, structural integrity, and energy generation in modern building envelopes.