Highlight
Thin film solar cells that use metal nanoparticles are economically viable
Achievement/Results
Prof. Fauchet and a doctoral student supported by the NSF IGERT program at the University of Rochester are developing thin film silicon solar cells that promise to make photovoltaics economically attractive. Silicon is used in more than 85% of all solar cells. Because the thickness of the silicon wafer required to absorb most of the solar radiation is so large, these solar cells are expensive and heavy. By adding metallic nanoparticles to a silicon solar cell, it is possible to use much less of silicon material, without sacrificing the efficient light absorption afforded by the thick wafers. However, a question arose because metallic nanoparticles have to be added, which could increase the cost of the solar cell and cancel the cost reduction made possible by the use of a thin film. The NSF-supported team has now shown that the increase in cost due to the use of metals does not offset the savings made possible by a reduction in silicon cost
Address Goals
The engineering student used the knowledge gathered from a business class required of all the IGERT students to reach his conclusion. This project demonstrates the integration of engineering concepts with economics and business concepts.
This result may help the US regain a leadership role in photovoltaics, an important and growing energy sector.
