Effective Conversion due to Nano-Engineered Photocarrier Kinetics in Quantum Dot Medium

研究目标和方法本研究的目的是开发一个科学，工程和技术基础，在单结量子点太阳能电池的高效光伏转换与专门设计的量子点介质，有效地收获和转换的子带隙光子。所提出的方法是基于纳米级工程的光电子过程中的潜在配置文件的操纵InAs量子点与调制掺杂GaAs光伏结构中的内置电荷。 该研究计划是两个研究小组的合作成果，具有来自布法罗和奥尔巴尼（UB和UA）大学的互补专业知识;它包括量子点太阳能电池的设计，制造和系统表征。通过调整特定的纳米级电位来实现光生载流子动力学的纳米工程是光伏转换的一种新颖的原始方法。通过提供所需的基础和技术基础，该计划开发了有效的方法来提高转换效率。更广泛的影响在本研究过程中开发的方法和原则将适用于一些量子点和纳米晶体的光伏器件。该项目还将通过其对教育的贡献产生更广泛的影响：（i）两所大学之间为期1-2周的学生交流;（ii）为K-1学生继续发展现代电子和纳米技术实验室;（iii）通过Java Applets将信息技术纳入能源转换;（iv）为历来代表性不足的学生继续参加Robert McNair方案;（v）透过在布法罗科学博物馆举办互动展览，以及在华盛顿大学和亚利桑那大学举办各种讲座，推广纳米技术。

Research Objectives and ApproachesThe objective of this research is to develop a scientific, engineering, and technological basis for high efficiency photovoltaic conversion in a single junction quantum dot solar cell with specifically designed quantum dot medium for effective harvesting and conversion of sub-bandgap photons. The proposed approach is based on nanoscale engineering of the photoelectron processes by manipulation of potential profiles produced by InAs quantum dots with built-in charge in modulation-doped GaAs photovoltaic structures. The research program is a collaborative effort of two research groups with complementary expertise from Universities at Buffalo and Albany (UB and UA); it includes design, fabrication, and systematic characterization of quantum dot solar cells. Intellectual MeritNanoengineering of photocarrier kinetics via tailoring the specific nanoscale potential is a novel original approach in photovoltaic conversion. By providing the needed fundamental and technological basis, this program develops effective ways for increasing the conversion efficiency.Broader ImpactsThe methodology and principles developed during this research will be applicable to a number of photovoltaic devices with quantum dots and nanocrystals. The project will also have broader impact through its contributions to education: (i) 1-2 week student exchange between the two Universities; (ii) for K-1 students, continuing development of modern electronics and nanotechnology laboratories; (iii) incorporation of the information technologies via Java Applets for energy conversion; (iv) continuing participation in Robert McNair program for historically under-represented students; (v) promotion of nanotechnology via interactive exhibit at the Buffalo Science Museum and various presentations at UB and UA.