Enhance the efficiency of solar cells

Researchers at the University of Texas say there is a possibility to increase the energy level in each solar cell by exploiting what they call the "invisible state" of the photon, doubling the amount Electrons can be obtained in the process. This finding could theoretically increase the maximum efficiency of solar silicon solar cells from 31 to 44 percent.

Previous studies led by chemist Xiaoyang Zhu have shown theoretically could push the efficiency level up to 66% if the electrons are generated to exploit the 'hot electron' , thermal energy The rest disappears within about a second after the cell sucks a photon. However, the harvesting of photons from sunlight is 'concentrated' in reality is not possible.

But the team's latest findings have found another alternative that boosts efficiency. The pentacene organic semiconductor resin, which absorbs a photon, produces a quantum mechanical exciton along with an invisible ' multiexciton ' . In this way, a photon can provide double the number of electrons. And, according to chemist Zhu, energy efficiency can be increased by up to 44 percent without the impact of a concentrated beam of energy.

'Semiconductor makes solar cells a great advantage because of its low cost , ' says Zhu. 'Combined with great capabilities in molecular design and synthesis, our discovery opening up a new window for energy conversion with high efficiency '.