Adjustment of Rare Earth Elements Luminescence Spectrum for Best Performance in Photovoltaic Applications

Article presents the report from research on the optimal down-shifting material for flexible thin film a-Si solar cells. Most promising candidates from the group of rare-earth elements were verified according to the luminescence level and light emission range. 3D map of excitation vs. emission characteristics was employed as well as FWHM (Full Width at Half Maximum) estimation for best composition evaluation. Polymer-based flexible layer for light conversion window film was designed. Appropriate granulation of each luminescent powder was investigated according to the emission spectrum and efficiency as well as deposited layer's morphology. The mixtures of various materials were composed and examined towards optimal emission spectrum basing on commercial a-Si cells' EQE (External Quantum Efficiency) characteristics.