Solar Cells Using Quantum Funnels

Illan J. Kramer, Larissa Levina, Ratan Debnath, David Zhitomirsky, Edward H. Sargent

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

120 Scopus citations

Abstract

Colloidal quantum dots offer broad tuning of semiconductor bandstructure via the quantum size effect. Devices involving a sequence of layers comprised of quantum dots selected to have different diameters, and therefore bandgaps, offer the possibility of funneling energy toward an acceptor. Here we report a quantum funnel that efficiently conveys photoelectrons from their point of generation toward an intended electron acceptor. Using this concept we build a solar cell that benefits from enhanced fill factor as a result of this quantum funnel. This concept addresses limitations on transport in soft condensed matter systems and leverages their advantages in large-area optoelectronic devices and systems. © 2011 American Chemical Society.
Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3701-3706
Number of pages6
JournalNano Letters
Volume11
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 14 2011
Externally publishedYes

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