Embedded Nanopatterns for Optical Absorbance and Photovoltaics
OwnerMichael J. Naughton, Michael J. Burns +1inventors
InventorsMichael J. Naughton, Michael J. Burns, Fan Ye
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Abstract
Devices and methods for enhancing optical absorbance and photovoltaics are disclosed. In some embodiments, a light absorbing device comprises a light absorbing material having a front surface and a back surface, and a planar array of nanostructures embedded within the light absorbing material between the front surface and the back surface of the light absorbing material. The nanostructures may be formed from a metallic material.
Claims22
A light absorbing device comprising:
- a light absorbing material having a front surface and a back surface;
- a planar array of nanostructures embedded within the light absorbing material between the front surface and the back surface of the light absorbing material.
A photovoltaic cell comprising:
- a photovoltaic junction having a light absorbing layer;
- a planar array of metallic nanostructures embedded within the light-absorbing layer;
- and
- a front electrode and a rear electrode electrically connected to the photovoltaic junction to collect electrical current generated in the photovoltaic junction.
A method for forming a light absorbing device comprising:
- providing a first thickness of a first photovoltaic material;
- disposing a planar array of metallic nanostructures on a surface of the first photovoltaic material;
- and
- adding a second thickness of the first photovoltaic material over the metal layer.
A method for increasing light absorption in a light absorbing material, the method comprising:
- providing a light absorbing material having a light absorbing surface and a back surface opposite the light absorbing surface;
- and
- embedding a planar nanopattern of metallic nanostructures into the light absorbing material between the light absorbing surface and the back surface,
- wherein, upon exposure of the light absorbing material, absorption of light by the light absorbing material is increased.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.