Hot Carrier Solar Cells : In the Making ?
Abstract
Hot carrier solar cells allow potential efficiency close to the thermodynamical limit in ideal conditions. However, the feasability of such devices has not been clearly stated so far and only ideal cells were considered in previous studies. Here we develop a model with realistic energy selective contacts, carrier thermalization and absorptivity. The requirements in term of contact selectivity is investigated, showing that semi-selective contacts are not incompatible with high efficiencies. Candidates for absorbing material were synthesized and the required thermalization properties are obtained. Specific structures were designed to enhance absorption of concentrated sunlight in a small material thickness, allowing high carrier density in the absorber.
Cite
@article{arxiv.1012.1944,
title = {Hot Carrier Solar Cells : In the Making ?},
author = {A. Le Bris and L. Lombez and Jean Francois Guillemoles and R. Esteban and M. Laroche and Jj. Greffet and G. Boissier and P. Christol and S. Collin and Jl. Pelouard and P. Aschehoug and F. Pellé},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:1012.1944},
year = {2010}
}
Comments
25th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition / 5th World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion, Valencia : Spain (2010)