Canada Invents New Technology that Significantly Increases Efficiency of Solar Cells

According to a recent report from the Physicists Organization Network, Canadian researchers have made a breakthrough in solar cell technology. Their new innovation significantly boosts the efficiency of solar cells, especially in the near-infrared range, where it increases energy conversion by 35%. Overall, the full-spectrum efficiency has risen by 11%, positioning quantum dot photovoltaics as a strong contender to replace traditional solar cell technologies. The findings were published in the latest issue of Nano Express.

Quantum dot solar cells offer a promising path toward affordable, large-area solar power. However, they have historically struggled with inefficiency in the infrared portion of the spectrum, which makes up nearly half of the sunlight that reaches Earth. To address this, Ted Sargent, a professor at the University of Toronto, and his team introduced a method involving spectral tuning and solution-based processing of plasma nanoparticles. This approach allows for precise control over how light is absorbed and scattered, offering a new way to enhance performance.

Colloidal quantum dots come with two major advantages. First, they are cost-effective, reducing the price per watt of electricity generated. More importantly, their absorption spectrum can be easily adjusted simply by changing the size of the quantum dots. This tunable property is key to optimizing their performance. By modifying the size of the particles, researchers can align the absorption and scattering properties of these nanomaterials, leading to better energy capture.

Sargent’s team improved solar cell efficiency by embedding gold nanoshells directly into the quantum dot films. While gold is effective, the next step is to explore cheaper alternatives that can achieve similar results. Paul Weiss, director of the Institute of Nanosystems at the University of California, emphasizes that the significance of this research lies in proving that adjusting nanoparticle characteristics can greatly enhance solar cell efficiency. With further development, this could pave the way for more efficient and affordable solar energy solutions in the future. (Feng Weidong)

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