Researchers from Stanford University have recently displayed a manner in which nanotechnology could be utilized to make crystalline silicon thin-film solar cells. They can capture solar energy more efficiently and can be produced at a much cheaper cost. The researchers noted that the new technique can lower the production of solar energy cost globally. The research team comprises three members, which include lead researcher Dr Shrestha Basu Mallick, as well as her advisers Dr Peter Peumans and Dr Mark Brongersma.
The research team showed that a solar cell with a thin-film crystalline silicon, having a two-dimensional nanostructure, could produce thrice as much photocurrent as a nonstructured cell, which has a similar thickness with the help of electrical simulations and optical modelling. Such a process can take place because the nanostructured surface can trap the light that comes in more effectively and causes it to stay for a longer time inside the silicon material. There is a greater chance of the light getting absorbed if it spends more time within the solar cell.
“Light absorption in crystalline silicon solar cells can be significantly enhanced by nanostructuring and this reduces the thickness of silicon required,” said Basu Mallick. “This is important because it helps countries be competitive against imported cells and paves the way for new solar applications such as flexible or transparent cells.”
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