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Polycrystalline Silicon Thin-film Solar cells with Plasmonic-enhanced Light-trapping
Published on: July 2, 2012
Enhanced absorption in optically thin solar cells by scattering from embedded dielectric nanoparticles.
James R Nagel1, Michael A Scarpulla
1Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
Optics Express
|July 1, 2010
Summary
This study introduces dielectric particles to enhance thin-film solar cell efficiency by scattering light. Simulations show a 5-10% increase in absorbed photon flux, particularly in the red spectrum.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Optics
- Renewable Energy
Background:
- Thin-film solar cells require efficient light absorption.
- Scattering light within the absorber layer can enhance absorption.
- Dielectric particles offer a promising route for light scattering.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and simulate a novel concept for improving thin-film solar cell efficiency.
- To investigate the use of embedded dielectric particles for light scattering.
- To quantify the enhancement in absorbed photon flux.
Main Methods:
- Finite-difference time domain (FDTD) simulations were employed.
- Spherical silicon dioxide (SiO(2)) particles were embedded in crystalline silicon (c-Si).
- An anti-reflective coating (ARC) of silicon nitride (Si(3)N(4)) was utilized.
Main Results:
- Embedded dielectric particles improved light scattering and absorption.
- Gains in absorbed photon flux were observed in the red spectrum.
- Total integrated absorption increased by 5-10% compared to cells without scatterers.
Conclusions:
- Dielectric particle scattering is a viable strategy for enhancing thin-film solar cell performance.
- This method is compatible with anti-reflective coatings.
- The approach shows potential for boosting solar energy conversion efficiency.
