Solar Cell Innovation: Silicon Nanoparticles Improve Performance
by Tim McGee, Helena, MT, USA on 08.21.07
Solar is booming, as it should. Third generation solar cells are seeing rapid growth, organic solar is breaking records, and the solar power bikini is the latest rage. But don't count plain old silicon out of the game just yet. Munir Nayfeh (pictured), a physicist at the University of Illinois, has developed a process that harnesses more out of a sunny day in the sand.
"Integrating a high-quality film of silicon nanoparticles 1 nanometer in size directly onto silicon solar cells improves power performance by 60 percent in the ultraviolet range of the spectrum." Says Nayfeh.
Furthermore, it was found that particles of 2.8 nanometers show an enhancement of around 67 percent in the ultraviolet range, and 10 percent in the visible spectrum. The improved performance highlights the importance of charge transport assisted by the nanostructured design created by the film of silicon nanoparticles.
The researchers have patented the process for creating the silicon nanoparticles. To add the nanoparticles to the solar cell it is a simple process of dispersal in isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) and pouring the solution on the raw solar cell. As the alcohol evaporates the nanoparticles self-assemble into a functional thin film. The process is so simple, it should be easy to incorporate into current manufacturing. Knowing the substance and size should give researchers a head start in determining the potential hazards of this type of coating in the environment. At any rate-this innovation should add a bit more juice to the solar powered bikini. Photo Credit to L. Brian Stauffer.
Yet another glowing solar breakthrough story. We've been hearing them for years. When will this new stuff hit the market? Solar is still too expensive for the average home installation, and it always has been.
Put some of these innovations on the market already! All this talk of free electricity from the sun, but it's still more expensive than coal generated electricity.
I've got a great expanse of southwest-facing roof, just waiting for affordable solar panels.
Foolish comments like Jeff's are only made by people who fail to understand that a gallon of gasoline in the US costs over $20.
Jeff has a point. We all know and want the benefits of solar power but until the cost per watt gets to ~ $2 installed it is hard to justify the cost. The benefits become intangible. We don't see the subsidies paid when the electric bill comes.
I am longing for solar cells that are 40% efficient and cost $4 per watt. At that point I can power an electric car on a daily commute of 26 miles.
Cost will not come down until supply outstrips demand and that will take a while.
I say keep up the research and bring on solar. The sooner the better.
Jeff
maybe the answer is end your question?
In your great expans other a roof.
My solar system in San Diego I purchased 4 years ago with tax credits cost me to less than a new car. To buy and operat a small new car cost about 13 thousand dollars a year.
for me this systems is already a bargain.
hello Sir,
I am a student of M.sc. Nanotechnology in india.
I am working on the silicon nano particles. So I want to know the method of preparation of silicon nanoparticles.
Can u please mail me that information ?
Thanking You
----Hitesh Chauhan