solar 'Magic' alloy could spur next generation of solar cells

[Unobscured Vision]

'Magic' alloy could spur next generation of solar cells

Article link | Phys.org website

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More information: J. Occena et al. Bi-enhanced N incorporation in GaAsNBi alloys, Applied Physics Letters (2017). DOI: 10.1063/1.4984227

Journal reference: Applied Physics Letters  

Provided by: https://phys.org/partners/university-of-michigan/ 

 

In what could be a major step forward for a new generation of solar cells called "concentrator photovoltaics," University of Michigan researchers have developed a new semiconductor alloy that can capture the near-infrared light located on the leading edge of the visible light spectrum.

 

Easier to manufacture and at least 25 percent less costly than previous formulations, it's believed to be the world's most cost-effective material that can capture near-infrared light—and is compatible with the gallium arsenide semiconductors often used in concentrator photovoltaics.

 

Concentrator photovoltaics gather and focus sunlight onto small, high-efficiency solar cells made of gallium arsenide or germanium semiconductors. They're on track to achieve efficiency rates of over 50 percent, while conventional flat-panel silicon solar cells top out in the mid-20s.

(Due to Neowin guidelines, I can't post more than this. Please read the article at 'Article link', above.)

 

Lots and lots of forward motion concerning PV cells lately, folks.  The floodgates are opening!