There are a few different types of nanocrystalline solar cells, and each type requires different resources. For example, quantum dot solar cells require semiconductor nanoparticles, while dye-sensitized solar cells require metal oxides and organic dyes. In general, though, all nanocrystalline solar cells require a substrate (usually glass or plastic), an electrolyte, and a semiconductor material.
The specific properties of the semiconductor material will determine the overall efficiency of the solar cell. For example, cadmium telluride (CdTe) is a popular choice for quantum dot solar cells because it has a direct band gap, which means that it can absorb a wider range of wavelengths. Other popular semiconductor materials include amorphous silicon (a-Si), cadmium selenide (CdSe), and lead sulfide (PbS).
The electrolyte is responsible for transporting charge carriers between the anode and cathode. The most common electrolyte used in nanocrystalline solar cells is an iodine-based solution, but other options include organic solvents and molten salts.
Finally, the substrate provides a base for the other cell components and also determines the overall size and shape of the solar cell. Glass is often used in nanocrystalline solar cells because it is strong and transparent, but other substrate materials include plastic and metal foils.
Education:
- Quantum Mechanics
- Semiconductor Physics
- Optoelectronic Properties of Nanocrystals
- Absorption and Photoluminescence Spectroscopy
Equipment:
- Nanocrystals
- Semiconductor nanoparticles
- Semiconductor wafers
- Transmission Electron Microscopes (TEMs)
- Simulation and Analyzation Software
Types of Solar Cells:
- Quantum dot solar cells
- Dye-sensitized solar cells
Semiconductor Materials:
- (CdTe) – Cadmium Telluride
- (CdSe) – Cadmium Selenide
- (a-Si) – Amorphous Silicon
- (PbS) – Lead Sulfide
Electrolytes:
- Iodine
- Organic solvent
- Molten salts
Substrate Foil:
- Glass
- Metal
- Plastic