Highly Crystalline Semiconductor Substrates for High Specific Power Solar Cells Fabricated by Nanocrystal Precursors

This Phase II proposal aims to develop nanocrystal-based technologies for the fabrication of nano-engineered solar cells with high specific power efficiency. The multiple-step fabrication will be completely based on solution-based procedures because of use of nanocrystal precursors. This warrants the low cost nature of the devices. The targeted power efficiency is between 10-30%, with a specific power efficiency above 1000 W/kg. These optimal efficiency values are estimated based on the proposed structures, nano-structured junction. The light weight of the devices will be achieved by using direct bandgap semiconductors and thin substrates. Considering the tough environment in outer space, the optimal device is designed to be based on inorganic and solid components. According to the instructions in the program solicitation, the Phase I program has concentrated on the development of technologies for the deposition of thin and high optical quality semiconductor films on the surface of inorganic substrates. The Phase II program will focus on the design, fabrication, and optimization of the entire nano-engineered solar cells.