Next Generation Solar Cells Based on Nanostructures

Increased power demands on satellites and remote instruments drive the need for achieving higher conversion efficiencies from solar cells with less weight and volume. Of great current interest is the ability to create nanoscale structures, with device properties that can be uniquely engineered. Quantum dot-based photovoltaics have been demonstrated, but the inherently low packing density of quantum dots negate internal efficiency gains. Two-dimensionally confined quantum wires (QWRS) can offer the advantages of having a nanoscale architecture while also providing large spatial volume. This Phase I program seeks to explore the application of QWRs to create high efficiency solar cells.