Nanoscale coating enables solar cells to absorb 20 percent more sunlight
Fri, 13 Apr 2018 13:36:42 EDT
Trapping light with an optical version of a whispering gallery, researchers have developed a nanoscale coating for solar cells that enables them to absorb about 20 percent more sunlight than uncoated devices.

Diamond-based circuits can take the heat for advanced applications
Tue, 10 Apr 2018 11:09:09 EDT
When power generators transfer electricity, they lose almost 10 percent of the generated power. To address this, scientists are researching new diamond semiconductor circuits to make power conversion systems more efficient. Researchers have now successfully fabricated a key circuit in power conversion systems using hydrogenated diamond. These circuits can be used in diamond-based electronic devices that are smaller, lighter and more efficient than silicon-based devices.

High efficiency solar power conversion allowed by a novel composite material
Mon, 09 Apr 2018 14:47:28 EDT
A composite thin film made of two different inorganic oxide materials significantly improves the performance of solar cells. Researchers have developed this material which combines two crystal phases comprising the atomic elements bismuth, manganese, and oxygen. The combination of phases optimizes this material's ability to absorb solar radiation and transform it into electricity. The results are highly promising for the development of future solar technologies, and also potentially useful in other optoelectronic devices.

Light 'relaxes' crystal to boost solar cell efficiency
Thu, 05 Apr 2018 15:55:34 EDT
Scientists have discovered a novel phenomenon: Light-induced lattice expansion in perovskite materials that cures bulk and interface defects, which leads to an enhancement of the optoelectronic properties.

Double perovskites in environmentally friendly solar cells
Thu, 05 Apr 2018 09:58:42 EDT
A further step has been taken along the road to manufacturing solar cells from lead-free perovskites. High quality films based on double perovskites, which show promising photovoltaic properties, have been developed.