Performance improvement of an ultra-thin film CIGS tandem solar cell using new plasmonic cluster nanostructures

Abstract

This work demonstrates an innovative plasmonic nanostructure configuration to enhance the performance of an ultra-thin film CIGS-based tandem solar cell. Silver nanoparticle clusters with optimized cubic and spherical shapes are incorporated into the bottom CIGS layer to create a light-trapping effect. The optimal nanoparticle dimensions and positioning are determined through analysis of optical and electrical parameters. The plasmonic nanostructures achieve a short-circuit current density of 20.24 mA/cm2 and a power conversion efficiency of 22.9 % - a 12.6 % enhancement over the non-plasmonic case. This improvement is attributed to the near-field enhancement from localized surface plasmon resonance, which significantly boosts the absorption in the critical long-wavelength region. The strategic use of plasmonic nanostructures proves effective in overcoming the light absorption limitations of ultra-thin CIGS tandem solar cells.