Simple down conversion nano-crystal coatings for enhancing Siliconsolar cells efficiency

Utilizing self-assembled nano-structured coatings on top of existing solar cells has the potential to increase the total quantum efficiency of the cell using a simple and cheap process. In our work we have exploited the controlled absorption of nano-crystal with different band gaps to realize down conversion artificial antennas that self-assembled on the device surface. The UV sun light is converted to the visible light enhancing the solar cell performance in two complementary routes; a. protecting the solar cell and coatings from the UV illumination and therefore reducing the UV radiation damage. b. enhancing the total external quantum efficiency of the cell by one percent. This is achieved using a simple cheap process that can be adjusted to many different solar cells.