Laminate structure with embedded cavities for use with solar cells and related method of manufacture

An integrated laminate structure adapted for application in the context of solar technology, said integrated laminate structure comprising:

• at least two elements at least one of which, optionally both, comprising optically substantially transparent material and the elements being laminated together such that at least one surface relief pattern of either element has been embedded within the laminate structure.

A method for constructing an integrated structure for optical applications in the context of solar technology, such as a structure incorporating a solar cell or to be at least disposed over a solar cell, the method comprising:

• obtaining a first carrier element optionally comprising optically substantially transparent material enabling light transmission therethrough,
• obtaining a second carrier element provided with at least one surface relief pattern comprising a number of surface relief forms and having at least one predetermined optical function relative to incident light, said second carrier element comprising optically substantially transparent material enabling light transmission therethrough, and
• laminating, optionally in a roll-to-roll fashion, the first and second carrier elements together such that the at least one surface relief pattern is embedded within the established laminate structure and a number of cavities are formed at the interface of said first and second carrier elements.