Light absorption enhancement by embedding aluminum nanodisk arrays in rear dielectric of ultra-thin film solar cells

Abstract

In this work, in order to enhance the light absorption in one micron thick crystalline silicon solar cells, a back reflecting and plasmonic nanodisk scheme is proposed. We investigate the scattering properties of aluminum nanostructures located at the back side and optimize them for enhancing absorption in the silicon layer by using finite difference time domain simulations. The results indicate that the period and diameters nanoparticles, spacer layer have a strong impact on short circuit current enhancements. This finding could lead to improved light trapping within a thin silicon solar cell device.