This technology is a photovoltaic device for efficiently converting incident radiation to electric power using nanocrystal-based channel architecture.
Methods for constructing photovoltaic devices include making silicon-based cells, which are much more expensive than conventional energy sources. Another approach involves hermetically sealing liquid electrolytes in cells, which requires complicated manufacturing procedures. Although extensive research had been done to optimize these methods, there are currently no simple cost-effective solutions that enable the fabrication of highly efficient photovoltaic cells.
This technology is a photovoltaic device that includes a photoactive channel layer in between two electrodes. The channel layer is made up of two materials: one which absorbs light and another that carries electrons. This photoactive middle layer is a polymer embedded with nanocrystals arranged in such a way that, on average, only one nanocrystal particle lies on any path between the two electrodes. This unique architecture makes this device highly efficient and, at the same time, easier to manufacture than conventional photovoltaic devices.
Joshua Salafsky, Ph.D.
IR M03-034
Licensing Contact: Satish Rao