Optimizing Horticulture Luminescent Solar Concentrators via Enhanced Diffuse Emission Enabled by Micro-Cone Arrays
Zhijie Xu1, Martyna Michalska2, Ioannis Papakonstantinou1
1Photonic Innovations Lab, Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 7JE, U.K.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|May 15, 2024
Summary
This study introduces horticultural luminescent solar concentrators (HLSCs) that enhance light extraction for improved photosynthesis and crop yields. Microcone arrays significantly boost converted photon output, offering a sustainable solution to food shortages.
Area of Science:
- Horticultural science
- Materials science
- Photonics
Background:
- Optimizing light spectrum for photosynthesis is key to increasing crop yields and addressing food security.
- Luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) offer spectral tailoring but suffer from low photon outcoupling efficiency.
- Conventional LSCs focus on photon concentration, limiting their application in enhancing light for plant growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel horticultural luminescent solar concentrator (HLSC) design that enhances light extraction efficiency.
- To investigate the impact of microcone arrays on mitigating total internal reflection and improving converted photon outcoupling.
- To assess the suitability of the HLSC's light emission characteristics for optimal plant growth.
Main Methods:
- Designing HLSCs by incorporating microcone arrays on the bottom surface to disrupt device symmetry.
- Utilizing Monte Carlo ray tracing simulations to model light propagation and extraction.
- Conducting experimental verifications and angularly resolved transmission measurements.
Main Results:
- Microcone arrays with specific dimensions (50 μm base width, 1.2 aspect ratio) significantly improved converted light extraction (85.15% for extruded, 66.55% for protruded profiles) compared to planar LSCs.
- The HLSC device demonstrated a broad angular radiation distribution, indicating diffuse light emission.
- The enhanced light extraction and diffuse emission characteristics are beneficial for plant photosynthesis.
Conclusions:
- HLSCs with microcone arrays represent a significant advancement in light management for horticultural applications.
- The developed HLSC technology effectively enhances photon utilization for photosynthesis, contributing to sustainable agriculture.
- This approach provides a promising strategy for improving crop yields and mitigating global food insecurity.
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