Solar Cell Employing Phosphorescent Materials | Available Intellectual Property | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Solar Cell Employing Phosphorescent Materials

RPI ID: 2015-004-601

Innovation Summary:
This solar cell design enhances light absorption efficiency using phosphorescent donor-acceptor structures. The architecture includes acceptor particles that generate photocurrent and donor particles made of phosphorescent materials. These donor particles absorb high-energy photons and re-emit them at longer wavelengths, which are then absorbed by the acceptors. This dual interaction improves the solar cell's spectral response and energy conversion efficiency. The structure is compact and compatible with thin-film technologies, making it adaptable to various photovoltaic applications.

Challenges / Opportunities:
Standard solar cells fail to harness high-energy photons efficiently, leading to energy loss. This invention bridges the gap by converting unused photon energy into usable light via phosphorescence. It offers a novel mechanism for spectral conversion that can be integrated into commercial solar modules. It addresses the increasing demand for high-efficiency, low-cost renewable energy systems, particularly in space-constrained environments.

Key Benefits / Advantages:
✔ Enhanced spectral absorption
✔ Phosphorescent energy conversion
✔ Improved efficiency in thin-film solar cells

Applications:
• Residential and commercial solar panels
• Portable and wearable solar power
• Building-integrated photovoltaics

Keywords:
#solarcell #phosphorescentmaterials #spectralconversion #thinfilmPV

Intellectual Property:
US Issued Patent 11,682,743 B2
Patent Information: