NU 2014-130
Inventors
Jiaxing Huang*
Cheng Sun
Chen Wang
Alexander Smith
Short Description
A novel solar cell manufacturing process using repurposed Blu-ray discs
Abstract
Northwestern researchers have developed a novel purpose for Blu-Ray Discs - photon management. Efficient absorption of light in solar cells or light emitting diodes (LEDs) is crucial for electronic material to operate optimally. To achieve the highest efficiency, bumps and divots of various sizes and shapes are patterned to 'trap' light within the absorbing layer. The most optimal patterns have features that are smaller than the wavelength of light (< 350 nm). However, solar cell fabrication using current lithography techniques is costly and requires specialty equipment. Northwestern researchers have developed a cost-effective and scalable way to manufacture solar cells. Their novel method imprints necessary features of thin film organic solar cells on repurposed Blu-ray discs. Random and quasi-random texturing of solar cells (photovoltaics) achieved by this method improves the efficiency of translating light energy into usable electricity by trapping photons. This creative and environmentally-friendly process reflects the further capabilities in repurposing low-cost consumer products for high-end, value-added applications.
Applications
Advantages
Publications
Smith A, Wang C, Guo D, Sun C, Huang J (2014) Repurposing blu-ray movie discs as quasi-random nanoimprinting templates for photon management. Nature Communications 5: 5517.
IP Status
Issued US Patent No. 9,786,845