Field-effect BaTiO3-Si solar cells

Conventional solar cells make use of the spatial variation in electronic environment due to junctions for charge separation. We investigated field-effect BaTiO3-Si solar cells that utilize the bound surface charges of BaTiO3 to separate charge carriers in silicon. Rectifying behavior and photovoltaic effect were observed on cells with forward polarization. Theoretical simulation indicated that the induced electric field due to BaTiO3 polarization could extend into the silicon layer, which is consistent with experimental observations. In addition, adjusting relevant parameters may optimize the electric field distribution. The cells are promising in terms of material selection, device design, and fabrication.