Multiple Exciton Generation Solar Cells
Heat loss is the major factor limiting traditional single junction solar cells to a theoretical efficiency of 32%. Multiple Exciton Generation (MEG) enables efficient use of the solar spectrum yielding a theoretical power conversion efficiency of 44% in solar cells under 1-sun conditions. Quantum-confined semiconductors have demonstrated the ability to generate multiple carriers but present-day materials deliver efficiencies far below the SQ limit of 32%. Semiconductor quantum dots of PbSe and PbS provide an active testbed for developing high-efficiency, inexpensive solar cells benefitting from quantum confinement effects. Here, we will present recent work of solar cells employing MEG to yield external quantum efficiencies exceeding 100%.
- Research Organization:
- National Renewable Energy Lab. (NREL), Golden, CO (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Science (SC)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC36-08GO28308
- OSTI ID:
- 1042523
- Report Number(s):
- NREL/AB-5900-54803; TRN: US201212%%809
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Presented at the 243rd ACS National Meeting, 25-29 March 2012, San Diego, California; Related Information: Abstract No. INOR-105
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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