Title: One-dimensional coaxial nanowire solar cell

Authors: Xia Ni, Qi Xu, Suo Bai, Yong Qin

Addresses: Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China; State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Chinese Academy of Science, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Lanzhou 730000, China. ' Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China. ' Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China. ' Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China

Abstract: Solar cell is a promising candidate for clean and renewable energy power. But high cost and low energy conversion efficiency are bottlenecks for its applications. In recent years, big progresses have been made in developing solar cells with reduced cost and increased efficiency. In this paper, we review recent studies on a new type of solar cells based on coaxial nanowires (NWs) and their arrays. The advantages and the photovoltaic properties of this kind of solar cells will be depicted first. Then the methods for improving efficiency will be discussed. Finally, some innovative designs of the solar cell structures and the potential applications of such solar cells will be summarised.

Keywords: solar cells; clean energy; coaxial nanowires; nanowire arrays; solar energy; solar power; nanotechnology.

DOI: 10.1504/IJNP.2011.040508

International Journal of Nanoparticles, 2011 Vol.4 No.2/3, pp.184 - 199

Received: 02 Sep 2010
Accepted: 04 Sep 2010
Published online: 13 Mar 2015 *

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