One-Dimensional Multilayer Microstructure Emitter for Thermophotovoltaic Applications

Abstract

In this paper, a one-dimensional periodic multilayer is optimized for potential application as thermophotovoltaic (TPV) emitter. The proposed structure was prepared through a magnetron sputtering process. The influence of layers geometric parameters of the proposed structure on the spectral emittance is studied by using the rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA).The emittance spectrum shows three close to unity emission peaks which are explained by the surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs), gap plasmon polaritons (GPPs) and magnetic polaritons (MPs) excitation. The results show that the geometric parameters are very sensitive and important parameter in the emitter fabrication. The normal emittance of the proposed structure is shown to be wavelength-selective and direction-insensitive. The proposed structure can be used as wavelength selective emitter with excellent performance in thermophotovoltaic systems.