Solar Energy Harvesting Research Articles

Innovative Power Strategies for CubeSats: Enhancing Solar Energy Capture and Efficient Storage Solutions

CubeSats, a revolutionary class of small satellites, have significantly democratized access to space by offering compact, cost-effective, and highly versatile platforms for scientific, commercial, and educational applications. These miniaturized spacecrafts have become indispensable tools for conducting Earth observation, atmospheric studies, deep-space exploration, and technology demonstrations. However, the efficient management of power systems remains a critical challenge due to the constraints imposed by their small size, limited surface area for solar energy harvesting, and the harsh conditions of space. This paper explores innovative approaches to optimizing the energy systems of CubeSats, focusing on advancements in solar energy harvesting, energy storage technologies, and power management strategies. It highlights the potential of high- efficiency photovoltaic materials, such as multi-junction and perovskite solar cells, to enhance energy capture by utilizing broader portions of the solar spectrum. The study also examines energy storage technologies, including lithium-ion, lithium-polymer, and emerging solid-state batteries, comparing their performance, reliability, and applicability in space missions. Furthermore, hybrid energy storage systems, which combine different storage technologies like batteries and supercapacitors, are analyzed for their ability to dynamically balance energy supply and demand, ensuring stability and efficiency under variable conditions. The research delves into advanced optimization techniques, such as Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms, which adaptively maximize energy extraction from solar panels, and thermal management strategies that mitigate efficiency losses due to overheating. Load scheduling, depth-of-discharge control, and real-time diagnostics are discussed as critical strategies to extend battery lifespan and ensure continuous operation. Mathematical models and experimental data are integrated to validate these techniques and provide actionable insights for the design and operation of CubeSat energy systems. By addressing the unique challenges of CubeSat power management, this study contributes to the development of robust, sustainable, and high-performance energy solutions. These advancements not only enhance CubeSat mission capabilities and longevity but also pave the way for more ambitious applications, including interplanetary exploration and multi- satellite constellations. The findings of this research are intended to benefit academia, space agencies, and industries, fostering innovation in small satellite technology and expanding the possibilities for cost-effective and impactful space exploration.

Coupled pyroelectric-photovoltaic effect in 2D ferroelectric α-In2Se3

Pyroelectric and photovoltaic effects are vital in cutting-edge broadband sensors and solar energy harvesting. Recent advances revealed great potential of the bulk photovoltaic effect in two-dimensional (2D) materials to surpass the Shockley-Queiseer limit. Moreover, the atomic thickness, high thermal conductivity and room-temperature ferroelectricity endow 2D ferroelectrics with a superior pyroelectric response. Herein, we combined direct pyroelectric-photovoltaic measurements in 2D α-In2Se3. The results reveal a gigantic pyroelectric coefficient of ∼30.7 mC/m2K and a figure of merit of ∼135.9 m2/C. Moreover, a coupled pyroelectric-photovoltaic effect was demonstrated, where the pyroelectric current follows the temperature derivative, while the short-circuit current follows temperature. Finally, we utilized the intercoupled ferroelectricity of In2Se3 to realize a non-volatile, self-powered photovoltaic memory operation, demonstrating stable short-circuit current switching with 103 ON-OFF ratio. The coupled pyroelectric-photovoltaic effect, along with reconfigurable photocurrent, pave the way for a novel integrated thermal and optical response, in-memory logic and energy harvesting.

Blue Electroluminescent Carbon Dots Derived from Victorian Lignite.

Carbon dots (CDs) derived from natural products have attracted considerable interest as eco-friendly materials with a wide range of applications, such as bioimaging, sensors, catalysis, and solar energy harvesting. Among these applications, electroluminescence (EL) is particularly desirable for light-emitting devices in display and lighting technologies. Typically, EL devices incorporating CDs feature a layered structure, where CDs function as the central emissive layer, flanked by charge transport layers and electrodes. Under an applied external bias, electrons and holes are introduced into the active CD layer, resulting in EL through radiative recombination. However, achieving EL with natural product-derived CDs has remained elusive due to challenges such as production difficulties and quenching in the solid state. In this study, we present, for the first time, the successful realization of EL from natural product-derived CDs, synthesized using Victorian lignite through a straightforward single-step pyrolysis method. The CDs demonstrated excellent dispersibility in solvents, allowing them to serve as an emissive layer in light-emitting diodes (LEDs). This was achieved by spin-coating a concentrated CD solution between the organic hole and electron transport layers on a glass substrate coated with indium tin oxide. Remarkably, the CDs retained their dispersibility and emissive efficiency both in solution (toluene) and after film formation. Moreover, the resulting LED demonstrated blue EL, characterized by a peak emission at 460 nm and a maximum luminance of 100.4 cd/m2. This luminance is comparable to that achieved with CDs synthesized from conventional chemical carbon sources. These results highlight the promise of natural product-derived CDs as sustainable and eco-friendly materials for use in LED applications.

Design and Implementation of a Smart Solar Tracker using Arduino for Enhanced Energy Efficiency

In the universe of solar energy systems, the quest for enhanced energy efficiency has led to the design and implementation of a Smart Solar Tracker using Arduino. This innovative solution leverages advanced control mechanisms to optimize solar panel orientation dynamically, addressing the inherent challenges posed by varying climatic conditions. Traditionally, solar trackers have faced limitations in adapting to changing weather patterns, impacting energy capture efficiency. The Smart Solar Tracker, outlined in this study, overcomes these challenges by integrating Arduino-based technology, demonstrating a robust and strong approach to solar tracking. The main result presented in this work showcases the superior performance of the Smart Solar Tracker, consistently delivering high and stable voltage outputs even in adverse weather conditions. Shows that the implementation of Arduino-based control systems in solar tracking significantly enhances energy efficiency, ensuring consistent power generation across diverse climatic scenarios. This advancement not only underscores the critical role of technology in optimizing renewable energy systems but also positions the Smart Solar Tracker as a promising solution for reliable and resilient solar energy harvesting. In terms of costing smart solar tracker is 3 times higher compared to traditional solar tracker whereas in terms of efficiency smart solar tracker using Arduino is 10 times which is 100 percentage more efficient compared to traditional solar tracker. The smart solar tracker using Arduino efficiency output was 68% which is the highest compared to both solar tracker which is 5% and 27% over 5 days of reading the Smart Solar Tracker. Comparison shows that the smart solar tracker using Arduino is the most efficient. The findings presented specifically lead the way for the broader integration of advanced control mechanisms in renewable energy infrastructure, fostering sustainability in the face of environmental variability.

Titanium Dioxide and Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction: A Detailed Review of the Current Status and Future Prospects

A significant amount of carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere as a result of the extensive usage of fossil fuels. The photocatalytic reduction and conversion of CO2 under visible light into alternative renewable solar fuels or other oxygenated products (methane, formaldehyde, methanol, and formic acid) are practical and efficient methods for reducing atmospheric carbon pollution. Functional materials containing titanium dioxide (TiO2) have attracted significant interest for the photocatalytic reduction of CO2. In this direction, many studies have been conducted in recent years, especially on solar energy harvesting and the charge separation, adsorption, activation, and reduction of CO2 on enhanced TiO2. Recent studies have shown that brookite TiO2 (BT) was the most active photocatalyst, followed by rutile and anatase. Therefore, this study aims to review in detail the recent advances in the development of selective and active catalysts for photocatalytic CO2 reduction using titanium dioxide with a brookite structure. This review evaluates the most common methods for obtaining BT. It discusses various engineered strategies, including doping with metallic or non-metallic heteroatoms, addition of a co-catalyst, formation of heterojunctions, and other algorithms to improve the CO2 reduction mechanism. The influence of another phase and crystal facets on the photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction are discussed in detail. The problems associated with BT-based photocatalysts, namely, their modest visible-light absorption, slow interfacial charge separation, and poor surface catalytic dynamics, are further discussed, along with possible solutions. To stimulate additional research in this field, the difficulties and potential advantages of photocatalytic CO2 conversion methods are discussed.

Perspective on Flexible Organic Solar Cells for Self-Powered Wearable Applications.

The growing advancement of wearable technologies and sophisticated sensors has driven the need for environmentally friendly and reliable energy sources with robust mechanical stability. Flexible organic solar cells (OSCs) have become promising substitutes for traditional energy solutions thanks to their remarkable mechanical flexibility and high power conversion efficiency (PCE). These unique properties allow flexible OSCs to seamlessly integrate with diverse devices and substrates, making them an excellent choice for powering various electronic devices by efficiently harvesting solar energy. This review summarizes recent achievements in flexible OSCs from the perspective of self-powered wearable applications. It discusses advancements in materials, including substrates and transparent electrodes, evaluates performance criteria, and compares the PCEs of flexible OSCs to their rigid counterparts. Subsequently, novel applications of flexible OSCs in self-powered wearable applications are explored. Finally, a summary and perspectives on the current challenges and obstacles facing flexible OSCs and their applications in self-powered wearables are provided, aiming to inspire further research toward practical implementations.

Sequential Infiltration Synthesis of Cadmium Sulfide Discrete Atom Clusters.

Exposure of soft material templates to alternating volatile chemical precursors can produce inorganic deposition within the permeable template (e.g. a polymer thin film) in a process akin to atomic layer deposition (ALD). While such sequential infiltration synthesis (SIS) processes have now been demonstrated for many metal oxides, we report an SIS process for a transition metal sulfide - CdS. Gas phase dimethyl cadmium and hydrogen sulfide precursors infiltrated into poly(4-vinylpyridine) thin films result in the 3D-nucleation of clusters consistent with a cubane-type Cd4S4 core that are variably terminated with methyl, thiol and hydroxy capping ligands. First principles models and simulation of few-atom Cd-based clusters are consistent with electronic and vibrational spectroscopy and grazing-incidence total X-ray scattering measurements of 3D-cluster-arrays synthesized at 80 °C. The direct synthesis of few-atom transition metal sulfide clusters within polymer thin films will provide a versatile new route to precision architectures for light-absorbing materials including solar energy harvesting and conversion applications.

Sequential Infiltration Synthesis of Cadmium Sulfide Discrete Atom Clusters

AbstractExposure of soft material templates to alternating volatile chemical precursors can produce inorganic deposition within the permeable template (e.g. a polymer thin film) in a process akin to atomic layer deposition (ALD). While such sequential infiltration synthesis (SIS) processes have now been demonstrated for many metal oxides, we report an SIS process for a transition metal sulfide – CdS. Gas phase dimethyl cadmium and hydrogen sulfide precursors infiltrated into poly(4‐vinylpyridine) thin films result in the 3D‐nucleation of clusters consistent with a cubane‐type Cd4S4 core that are variably terminated with methyl, thiol and hydroxy capping ligands. First principles models and simulation of few‐atom Cd‐based clusters are consistent with electronic and vibrational spectroscopy and grazing‐incidence total X‐ray scattering measurements of 3D‐cluster‐arrays synthesized at 80 °C. The direct synthesis of few‐atom transition metal sulfide clusters within polymer thin films will provide a versatile new route to precision architectures for light‐absorbing materials including solar energy harvesting and conversion applications.

Methacrylate-based copolymers as tunable hosts for triplet-triplet annihilation upconversion.

The ability to convert light to higher energies through triplet-triplet annihilation upconversion (TTA-UC) is attractive for a range of applications including solar energy harvesting, bioimaging and anti-counterfeiting. Practical applications require integration of the TTA-UC chromophores within a suitable host, which leads to a compromise between the high upconversion efficiencies achievable in liquids and the durability of solids. Herein, we present a series of methacrylate copolymers as TTA-UC hosts, in which the glass transition temperature (T g), and hence upconversion efficiency can be tuned by varying the co-monomer ratios (n-hexyl methacrylate (HMA) and 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TFEMA)). Using the model sensitiser/emitter pair of palladium(ii) octaethylporphyrin (PdOEP) and diphenylanthracene (DPA), the upconversion quantum yield was found to increase with decreasing glass transition temperature, reaching a maximum of 1.6 ± 0.2% in air at room temperature. Kinetic analysis of the upconversion and phosphorescence decays reveal that increased PdOEP aggregation in the glassy polymers leads to a competitive non-radiative relaxation pathway that quenches the triplet state. Notably, the threshold intensity is highly sensitive to the glass transition temperature, ranging from 1250 mW cm-2 for PHMA90TFEMA10 (T g = -9.4 °C) to ∼200 mW cm-2 for more 'glassy' hosts, e.g. PHMA33TFEMA67 (T g = 20.1 °C), suggesting the TTA-UC mechanism switches from diffusion-based collisions to triplet exciton migration at localised sensitiser-emitter pairs.

A Phenomenological Perturbation-like Approach for Prediction of Molecular Properties in Large Libraries of Polysubstituted Derivatives: Application to Molecular Solar Thermal Systems.

The prediction of a specific chemical property across a vast library of derivatives represents a formidable challenge. Conventional computational methodologies typically rely on brute-force calculations involving the computation of the property of interest for the entire library or a significant subset. In this study, we present a novel phenomenological approach to address this challenge, employing a perturbation theory-like framework to describe substituent effects. This proposed methodology has the potential to forecast the molecular properties of millions of compounds based on information derived from just a few hundred. This method is applied to the design of molecular solar thermal (MOST) systems, which are devices permitting harvesting solar energy and storing it in a chemical form. The optimization of MOST performance is a critical issue in practical applications of this technology, so exploration of large libraries of derivatives at low computational cost is an interesting approach to tackle the problem. To accomplish this objective, we explore the functionalization of the norbornadiene/quadricyclane (NBD/QC) system utilizing the proposed perturbational approach predicting the energy of 350 derivatives from small sets of 5 and 50 calculated compounds.

Self-Sufficient Electrochromic Solar Cells: Photovoltaic and Color Modulating Smart Windows.

Electronic devices cover a large subset of daily life gadgets which use power to run, hence increasing the load of the energy needs and indirectly impacting greenhouse gas emissions. Smart electrochromic windows provide a solution to this through remarkable energy saving by adjusting optical behavior depending on the environmental conditions. Since the electrochromic windows also need power to run, a self-powered electrochromic panel will be a better solution. Electrochromic solar cell (ECSC) technology stands out among the available technologies by offering multifunctional functionalities. Utilizing ECSCs, energy efficiency may be greatly increased by harvesting solar energy and using it to generate and store electricity while dynamically adjusting thermal and optical properties. Looking at this emerging trend, material selection and device architecture that can store and utilize solar energy in their performance mechanism are the need of the hour. The ECSCs hold substantial potential for energy savings in heating, cooling, and lighting, making them crucial for the development of energy-efficient buildings. The present spotlight provides information on the necessary materials, device designs that have emerged so far, and their impact on optical modulation and energy harvesting and sheds light on future perspectives.

Density Functional Theory (DFT)and Time-Dependent DFT (TDDFT) Studies of Porphyrin Adsorption on Graphene: Insights on the Effect of Substituents and Central Metal on Adsorption Energies.

Combining metalloporphyrins (MPr) and graphene constitutes key composites in the development of photovoltaic devices. Here, we focus on the analysis of the properties of metalloporphyrins/graphene systems by means of the density functional theory (DFT) and its time-dependent (TDDFT) version, focusing on the ground and singlet excited states. Our benchmark analysis concludes that ωB97XD density functional combined with 6-31G(d)/Def2-TZVP basis set is a better-suited method for simulating accurate MPr adsorption on graphene. It is shown that a reduced atomic model where the external organic shell of the structure is removed provides the same resulting optoelectronic properties of the original model, constituting an important speed-up of the calculations when studying porphyrins-derived molecules. We observe that ZnPr provides the highest light harvesting efficiency (LHE) value. In addition, we find out that the adsorption energy increases monotonically with the size of the graphene flake and the highest stability involves the use of graphene comprising above 500 atoms. Besides, CdPr and HgPr keep their properties as photosensitizers when they are bonded to graphene and show promising values in terms of LHE emerging as suitable solar energy harvesters.

Fano resonated, ultrathin, flexible and ultrawideband absorption featured nano-metaatom structure with dispersion gap optimized for optical range applications

This article reports an Ultra wideband nano scale metamaterial absorber with ultrathin and flexible feature for visible spectrum applications. The absorber investigated for dispersion and Fano resonance characteristics to achieve metamaterial properties as well as independent of asymmetry of structure. Maximum visible spectrum wave interaction with the cascaded split nano square meta atom also ensured to achieve the absorption at highest percentage in numerical evaluation. The Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) method incorporated with CST microwave studio computational tool used for the entire analysis. Numerical analysis revealed that, on average 86.66% absorption achieved for 560 THz bandwidth peak absorption for the unit cell was 99.88% and the array shows 99.79%. Dispersion gap optimized based on mode 4 to incorporate all photons for phase and group velocity inside the nano metamaterial absorber. Furthermore, the Fano resonance wave to identify the high-quality factor at visible spectrum on nanostructure meta atom and direct-indirect visible wave trapped in the structure. The dispersion gap optimization and Fano resonance make the proposed cascaded split nano square meta atom a significant candidate for visible spectrum applications like solar energy harvesting, biochemical sensing, optical range application etc.

An innovative BiOI@AgBiS2@NaYF4:Yb, Tm ternary heterostructure for efficient solar energy harvesting towards tetracycline hydrochloride degradation.

This study developed a BiOI@AgBiS2@NaYF4:Yb,Tm heterostructure photocatalyst. This design significantly enhances the generation and separation of charge carriers, leading to a marked improvement in solar energy harvesting. This advancement was effectively applied for the degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride. This strategy provides inspiration for designing and developing full-spectrum responsive photocatalysts.

Band Gap Engineering of Semiconductors and Ceramics by Severe Plastic Deformation for Solar Energy Harvesting

Band Gap Engineering of Semiconductors and Ceramics by Severe Plastic Deformation for Solar Energy Harvesting

Photo-rechargeable zinc ion capacitors using MoS2/NaTaO3/CF dual-acting electrodes prepared by photodeposition method.

This study presents an innovative approach to integrated energy systems by combining solar energy harvesting and electrochemical charge storage in a single modular platform. By strategically incorporating a MoS2/NaTaO3 heterostructure material, we have developed a photo-rechargeable zinc-ion capacitor (PR-ZIC) that utilises the synergistic benefits of this unique configuration. The photoactive MoS2/NaTaO3 cathode effectively absorbs light and charges the capacitor, enabling continuous light-driven operation. Experimental studies show that the MoS2/NaTaO3-based photo-rechargeable zinc-ion capacitor (PR-ZIC) exhibits a significant increase in capacitance when irradiated with light, with a 2.76-fold increase (93.94 mF cm-2) compared to dark conditions (33.95 mF cm-2) at a 10 mV s-1 scan rate. In addition, these capacitors show a photocharge voltage response of about 860 mV and excellent cyclability, retaining about 96% of their capacity over 4000 charge-discharge cycles. The results of this study highlight the potential of the MoS2/NaTaO3 heterostructure as a high-performance photoactive material for advanced photo-rechargeable zinc-ion energy storage devices. This integrated approach offers innovative off-grid energy solutions by optimizing device footprint, minimizing energy transfer losses and providing sustainable energy storage options.

A review of the design and strategies for photoassisted rechargeable metal-ion batteries

This review highlights the design and strategies to optimize energy conversion and storage of photo-assisted rechargeable batteries (PARBs). PARB combines solar energy harvesting and storage into a single efficient system.

Some physical and electrochemical properties of one-dimensional ZnO nanomaterials providing enhanced solar energy harvesting for DSSCs

Some physical and electrochemical properties of one-dimensional ZnO nanomaterials providing enhanced solar energy harvesting for DSSCs

Excited-state intramolecular proton transfer derivatives as self-absorption free luminophores for luminescent solar concentrators

Luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) have garnered considerable attention for their potential to enhance solar energy harvesting in photovoltaic (PV) systems. However, self-absorption often hinders their efficiency, caused by the overlap...

Maximizing Solar Energy Harvesting: Enhancing the Efficiency of Bifacial Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells with Graphenated Carbon Nanotube Composites in Multi-Layered Stacked Photoanode

Maximizing Solar Energy Harvesting: Enhancing the Efficiency of Bifacial Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells with Graphenated Carbon Nanotube Composites in Multi-Layered Stacked Photoanode