Transparent Conductor for Ultra High Efficiency Solar Cells for Space Applications

Eclipse Energy Systems proposes to optimize its visibly transparent metal-like self-structured conductor with plasmonic waveguide effect (VisTEC™) technology as a such a superior, low cost conductor for solar cells. The Eclipse visible transparent conductor is tailor-able for most types of PV, providing enhanced efficiency through a variety of properties. The Eclipse transparent conductor is a self structured nanomaterial with plasmonic waveguide nano-wires providing increased surface area and has metal-like conductance while maintaining dielectric like transparency. We feel that our VisTEC™ technology will give multi-junction solar cell efficiency improvement over metal based and indium-tin based conductors and help achieve the >37% target. The core technology has been flown in space where it showed excellent wear characteristics while deployed in the space vacuum environment. As a transparency window the coating can be optimized for most any type of PV cell thus Eclipse believes that this comprehensive program not only addresses the immediate goals of this solicitation but the overall Air Force goal to introduce a new generation of lighter and more powerful solar cell arrays by 2010. BENEFIT: Successful completion of the program objectives will result in the development of a family of easily processed, VisTEC covered photovoltaic cells displaying high photovoltaic efficiency at low cost. The VisTEC layer can be tuned for absorption and operation at UV, visible and infrared wavelengths as the surface plasmon effect increases the local electromagnetic field and affects the center frequency and efficiency of electron –hole generation. The photovoltaics will be used to meet individual Soldier energy requirements, communications, building and facility energy requirements and space-based electric power systems. The nanostructured surface Plasmon based TEC added to III-V photovoltaics will be brought to market through the establishment of strategic alliances with DoD prime contractors and commercial alternative energy firms. In particular, the defense- and space-related uses of the technology will be addressed with contractors concerned reducing logistics burdens in troop and equipment deployment. Space-based systems will be brought to market through contractual arrangements with firms working with the Department of Energy, Department of Defense and NASA.