The combination of quantum dots and optical rectennas for solar cells application

Abstract

The modern condition of the current energy system requires significant improvements and changes to follow the zero emissions target. In practice, it requires transit from burning of fossil fuels to an application of sustainable ways of the electric energy generation. One of the most perspective energy sources for humanity is the solar energy which is unlimited in modern understanding and can cover growing energy consumption. Nevertheless, current technologies for the harvesting of the solar power have several disadvantages which restrict their development and limit the efficiency of the conversion process. In the thesis work, features of the modern photovoltaic technologies such as semiconductor devices, quantum dots, and optical rectennas were clarified and compared. Also, current energy consumption and perspectives of its feature development were described. The main purpose of the master thesis is to propose a solution for improving a solar power harvesting device. Investigation of unique properties of quantum dots and optical antennas has allowed proposing their joint use for improving the efficiency of converting process compared with using them separately. Application of a quantum dot layer as an electromagnetic wave frequency transformer could potentially overcome a drawback of optical rectennas’ low efficiency at a broad spectrum operation, decrease a negative effect for diodes of operation with unfit frequencies and make them a promising technology for photovoltaic technology with careful further research.