This High-Tech Antenna Can Double Solar Cell Efficiency
Katherine Pendrill — August 19, 2015 — Eco
References: phys.org & treehugger
Dr. Challa V. Kumar recently produced a new kind of antenna that can double solar cell efficiency. While silicon solar cells are good at converting certain wavelengths into electricity, they are not very efficient at converting light from the blue part of the spectrum. This lower efficiency means that it takes homeowners and business a longer amount of time to recoup the funds they invested in solar panels.
Dr. Kumar recently found a way to improve solar cell efficiency through high-tech antenas. Dr. Kumar and his team developed an antenna made from organic dyes that are charged by light. When these dyes are warmed up and then cooled, they create a pink film that can be coated on top of solar cells to improve their efficiency. Not only is the dye eco-friendly, but it is also inexpensive to produce.
While the new antennas are still in the prototype stage, the clever device could help consumers recoup their investments in solar energy much faster.
Dr. Kumar recently found a way to improve solar cell efficiency through high-tech antenas. Dr. Kumar and his team developed an antenna made from organic dyes that are charged by light. When these dyes are warmed up and then cooled, they create a pink film that can be coated on top of solar cells to improve their efficiency. Not only is the dye eco-friendly, but it is also inexpensive to produce.
While the new antennas are still in the prototype stage, the clever device could help consumers recoup their investments in solar energy much faster.
Trend Themes
1. Solar Cell Efficiency - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing new technologies or materials that can improve the efficiency of solar cells, such as organic dyes as antennas.
2. Eco-friendly Dyes - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Finding sustainable and low-cost alternatives to traditional materials used in solar cells, such as using organic dyes as a coating.
3. Faster Return on Investment - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating solutions that can accelerate the payback time for homeowners and businesses investing in solar energy, like improving solar cell efficiency with high-tech antennas.
Industry Implications
1. Solar Energy - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Advancing technologies and materials in the solar energy industry that can enhance the performance and cost-effectiveness of solar cells.
2. Sustainable Materials - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing eco-friendly materials that can be used in various industries, including solar energy, to reduce environmental impact.
3. Energy Investment - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating innovative solutions and financial models to encourage more investments in renewable energy, such as offering faster returns on investment for solar energy projects.
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