Optical waveguide‐based photon concentrator for hybrid photovoltaic cells

Abstract

Solar energy is pollution‐free with less impact on the ecosystem, but it has limitations due to its intermittent nature attributed to sun availability for specific hours, resulting in less energy conservation efficiency. Similar to the purpose of carvings on the leaves to collect water, we are presenting a nanometer‐thick layer of silicon or chalcogenide with fused silica for photons enhancement in red and the blue portion of the spectrum within the solar energy reaching the earth's surface. The design is based on nanorod imprints on micrometer‐sized conventional fused silica, ensuring better absorption and transportation toward hybrid photovoltaic cells. Hybrid solar cells (comprising silicon and perovskites) are typically termed the future of solar power, but will not be discussed here. Effective area, optical power concentration, and second‐ and higher‐order dispersions can further help design and develop the photon concentrators.

Characteristics analysis of fused silica material and experimental research on polishing removal efficiency

“…Fused silica material has good chemical stability and electrical insulation. Due to its high hardness, high-temperature resistance, large elastic modulus, low expansion coefficient, and other advantages, it is widely used in key optics in the fields of national defense, aerospace, high-energy laser, and solar energy [1][2][3] , and it is the main material selected for laser system focus lens, manned spacecraft window and high-speed aircraft infrared window [4][5]. Fused silica material can withstand severe cold and hot changes and can resist high-impact loads, which makes it a significant advantage over other transparent materials [6] .…”