Glass engineering to enhance Si solar cells: A case study of [formula omitted] codoped tellurite-tungstate as spectral converter

Abstract

Spectral converters are known to increase photovoltaic energy conversion by minimizing losses due to fundamental non-absorption and thermalization processes, and have been suggested to surpass the Shockley-Queisser efficiency limit in single junction solar cells. Here we present a detailed spectroscopic study of photoluminescence in tellurite-tungstate glasses doped and codoped with Pr3+−Yb3+ and Ag nanoparticles. The energy transfer mechanisms between Pr3+ and Yb3+ are discussed based on the near infrared emission under excitation at 442 nm and on the upconversion emission under excitation at 980 nm. Fluorescence quenching of 2F5/2 level of Yb3+ is observed by increasing the concentration of Pr3+, as well as by the addition of Ag nanoparticles. In addition, a discussion on the potential of this glass to increase energy production in spectral converters is presented. The results suggest that the few undesirable energy transfer processes occurring in this material are difficult to be controlled or eliminated properly, resulting in intrinsic losses. This discussion is extended to the potential of glass science to enhance energy production in solar cells, showing that newer designs such as bifacial cells may facilitate the exploration of glasses other than soda-lime for mass production of solar cells. The focus on extending the lifespan by reducing UV induced degradation seems to be a more effective approach than the development of spectral converters for Si solar cells.