Design and Optical Performance of a Single-Junction GaAs Nanowire-Ge Solar Cell

Abstract

Solar cells are one of the most effective methods available for energy harvesting and are constructed from a variety of materials. In recent years, the use of novel materials for low-cost, high-efficiency photovoltaics has been one of the most exciting breakthroughs. This study conducted an in-depth investigation into the optical characteristics of GaAs nanowires on a Ge bottom cell. Geometric optimization of nanowires is necessary to increase solar cell performance metrics. The absorption efficiency per unit volume was considerably boosted over its traditional bulk and thin-film counterparts as a result of inherent antireflection, intensive stimulation of resonant modes, and optical antenna effects. A 3D FDTD framework was used to acquire optical properties and incorporate numerical values. Under typical AM 1.5G illumination, the diameter of GaAs nanowires was optimized to 170 nm.