Quantum dot solar cell: Materials that produce two intermediate bands

Placing intermediate bands within the energy gap of a semiconductor has been proposed as a way to increase solar cell efficiency. In this work, possible energy band configurations are determined, which achieve a theoretical efficiency greater than 70%. One way to create these bands is by utilizing quantum dot technology. Quantum dot materials and parameters are identified, which closely match the intermediate band energies that provide the maximum theoretical efficiency. The sensitivity of the efficiency as a function of the intermediate band energy levels is investigated. In addition, the minimum distances between the quantum dot materials required to prevent band overlap are determined.