Investigators

Yi Cui, Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University

Objective

This project explores a novel photovoltaic cell architecture using a network of PbSe nanowires combined with PbS nanocrystals. The aim of this project is to use the proposed structure to achieve both high photon absorption through impact ionization processes in the nanocrystals, and efficient charge transport through both the nanowire network and the nanocrystal arrays filling the void space in the nanowire scaffold. This concept is a new approach to the realization of high-efficiency thin film photovoltaics, and will require the exploration of fundamental questions, many of which will also benefit other innovative thin film technologies.

Annual Reports

Publications

• Zhu, J. H. Peng, C. K. Chan, and Yi Cui. “Hyperbranched lead selenide nanowire networks” Nano Letters, Vol 7, No. 4, 1095-1099, (2007).
• Zhu, Jia, Hailin Peng, A. F. Marshall, D. M. Barnett, W. D. Nix, and Yi Cui. Formation of chiral branched nanowires by the Eshelby Twist. Nature nanotechnology 3, no. 8 (2008): 477-481.

Presentations

• Y. Cui “Solar Cells and Batteries with Inorganic Nanowires,” ACS Spring Meeting, One-Dimensional Nanomaterials Symposium, Division of Inorganic Chemistry, Chicago, IL, invited talk, March 28, 2007.
• Y. Cui Y. “Lead Chalcogenide Nanowires and Hyperbranches for Multiexciton Generation Solar Cells,” MRS Spring Meeting, Symposium DD, San Francisco, CA, talk, April 12, 2007.