Abstract
We analyze the enhancement in optical absorption of an absorbing medium when spherical metal nanoparticles are embedded in it. Our analysis uses generalized Mie theory to calculate the absorbed optical power as a function of the distance from the metal nanoparticle. This analysis is used to evaluate the potential of enhancing optical absorption in thin-film solar cells by embedding spherical metal nanoparticles. We consider the trade-off between maximizing overall optical absorption and ensuring that a large fraction of the incident optical power is dissipated in the absorbing host medium rather than in the metal nanoparticle. We show that enhanced optical absorption results from strong scattering by the metal nanoparticle which locally enhances the optical electric fields. We also discuss the effect of a thin dielectric encapsulation of the metal nanoparticles.
Highlights
We provide an analytical analysis and physical interpretation of the origin of the enhancement of the optical absorption of a host material when spherical metal nanoparticles (MNPs) are embedded
The enhancement is evaluated within a 0.1nm-thick shell in the presence of a 5nm-radius MNP over the case without a MNP: (( )) (( )) η
There is a significant enhancement in the optical absorption over a broad spectral range for λ>550nm without a penalty of a large fraction of the incident light being absorbed by the Ag nanospheres
Summary
Where we followed the notations of Ref [12]. The functions ψn and ξn are evaluated at ρ = R. an and bn are scattering coefficients, k is wavenumber, and μ is the permeability of host material. The total absorbed power can be written in compact form as:
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
