Nanoshell research brings the promise of more efficient photovoltaics

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new technology that promises to increase the efficiency of thin-film solar cells (TFSC). Whereas traditional methods allow light to pass straight through the outer layer of the cells to the photovoltaic material underneath, this solution utilizes Nanocrystalline silicon to trap light inside "nanoshells." The nanoshells force light to circulate inside their structure several times, allowing the photovoltaic material underneath to absorb more light. The technology works in a similar way to a whispering gallery — an architectural phenomenon that allows two people to whisper to each other while standing on opposite sides of a room.

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