Improving the performance of quantum well solar cells with photonic crystal.

Abstract

The fabrication of quantum well solar cells with surface photonic crystal (SPC) and embedded photonic crystal (EPC) structures has resulted in solar cells with improved properties. When compared to reference solar cells (RSCs), the photoluminescence (PL) intensities of SPC solar cells and EPC solar cells have been enhanced by 89% and 114%, respectively. This indicates improved light absorption and emission characteristics in the presence of the periodic patterns (PCs). The short-circuit current (Isc) of EPC solar cells is 31% higher than that of RSCs, suggesting improved light absorption and carrier generation. On the other hand, SPC solar cells exhibit a 6% higher Isc compared to RSCs, and the open-circuit voltage has increased simultaneously. The fill factors (FF) of the solar cells are 84% for RSCs, 86% for SPC solar cells, and 76% for EPC solar cells. The higher FF in SPC solar cells suggests improved charge carrier collection efficiency. In terms of photoelectric conversion efficiency, SPC solar cells demonstrate a 10.6% increase, while EPC solar cells show a 7.7% increase. These improvements indicate that the incorporation of PCs in the solar cells enhances their ability to convert light into electrical energy. These findings highlight the potential of photonic crystals engineering for enhancing the performance of solar cells.