High performance new generation solar cells with metal nanostructures

Solar cells with device morphologies that promote light trapping within the absorbing layer can exhibit higher absorption and hence higher efficiency than conventional, planar solar cells [1]. A study has been undertaken to asses the potential of using metallic nanostructures in thin-film solar cells. A promising structure, a structured metallic electrode, features an array of metallic nanowires oriented perpendicular to the metallic electrode adjacent to the absorbing material. Localized Surface Plasmons (LSP)s can be excited on the nanowires which can give rise to wide-angle scattering and near-field absorption enhancement. Both of these effects can contribute to the enhancement of device efficiency. Experimental results of these structures will also be presented. This work can be applied to optimize the performance of a wide variety of devices, including organic, thin-film inorganic and dye-sensitized solar cells.