Efficiency limits of Si/SiO2 quantum well solar cells from first-principles calculations

Abstract

In order to investigate the applicability of new photovoltaic absorber materials, we show how to use first-principles calculations combined with device simulations to determine the efficiency limits of solar cells made from SiO2/Si superlattices and from coaxial ZnO/ZnS nanowires. Efficiency limits are calculated for ideal systems according to the Shockley–Queisser theory but also for more realistic devices with finite mobilities, nonradiative lifetimes, and absorption coefficients. Thereby, we identify the critical values for mobility and lifetime that are required for efficient single junction as well as tandem solar cells.

A novel thermo-photovoltaic cell with quantum-well for high open circuit voltage

“…We derived absorption coefficients, quantum efficiency, I-V and variety of V oc , I sc , FF via the thickness in top cell and via number of MQW in the bottom cell [16]. Finally, we select suitable thickness for top cell and suitable number of MQW for bottom cell because these cells must have current matching for optimization of result.…”

Si/Si<inf>1&#x2212;x</inf>Ge<inf>x</inf> nanopillar superlattice solar cell: A novel nanostructured solar cell for overcoming the Shockley-Queisser limit

“…We estimated the efficiency of MEG solar cell (η MEG ) on the basis of the efficiency-lifetime relation in quantum well solar cells [7] under the assumption of maximally efficient MEG (Fig. 21).…”

Fabrication of ZnInON/ZnO multi-quantum well solar cells

“…Furthermore, extra absorption of light at longer wavelengths via sub-band transition can enhance the current density output. These advantages of MQW solar cells make their theoretical efficiency over 50 % [10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18].…”