Near field and far field plasmonic enhancements with bilayers of different dimensions AgNPs@DLC for improved current density in silicon solar

Abstract

The effect of a bilayer of different dimension silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) on light trapping in silicon solar cells is investigated. Here, we report on the improved performance of silicon solar cells by integrating two layers of silver nanoparticles of different sizes. We experimentally examine the plasmonic near-field and far-field effects of bilayer Ag NPs embedded within an anti-reflective DLC layer on silicon solar cells' optical and electrical characteristics. Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy drove the two-dimensional differences in the size of Ag NPs. The surface plasmon resonance of the two-dimensional nanoparticles was estimated from the absorption optical spectra. External quantum efficiency measurements showed that near-field or far-field plasmonic effects altered with the Ag NPs size. The development of far fields was confirmed by measuring the solar cell performance under AM 1.5 G illumination. The impact of the far-field in the cell containing two layers of Ag NPs, which outer layer is larger dimensions NPs, improves the current density up to 38.4 mA/cm2 (by 70% compared to the bare reference cell).

Investigation of microstructural, micromorphology, and surface plasmon resonance characteristics in Ni/Al, Ni/Cu, and Ni/SS thin films

“…In contemporary times, thin film technology has emerged as a versatile tool with extensive applications across diverse fields such as optics, medicine, sensors, corrosion prevention, energy generation, spintronics, and catalyst development, owing to their unique physical and chemical properties (Achour et al, 2017; Ghaderi et al, 2022; Ghodselahi & Arman, 2015; Habibi et al, 2022; Hekmat et al, 2022; Qin et al, 2020; Ţălu et al, 2016). Consequently, comprehending the mechanisms underlying the formation of thin film microstructures holds the promise of innovating novel materials tailored for specific technological advancements.…”

Structure and Optical Characteristics of DLC Films

“…There has been increasing interest in diamond-like carbon (DLC) thin films in recent years due to their exceptional properties, which make them suitable for various industrial applications. Such characteristics consist of electrical, magnetoresistance, mechanical propertice, and resistance to chemical corrosion [1][2][3][4][5]. As a result, DLC films have become an essential component in various industries, particularly in the production of optical coatings and wear-resistant coatings for computer hard disks that can effectively transmit both infrared and visible light.…”