Towards better solar cells through unique electricity generation
by Riko Seibo
Tokyo, Japan (SPX) Oct 23, 2024

Researchers in Japan have experimentally demonstrated the bulk photovoltaic (BPV) effect in alpha-phase indium selenide (a-In2Se3) along the out-of-plane direction for the first time, potentially leading to advancements in solar cell technologies and photosensors. This unusual effect allows certain materials to outperform conventional p-n junctions used in today's solar cells.

The BPV effect, seen in materials lacking internal symmetry, generates "shift currents" where electrons excited by light move coherently in a specific direction, unlike traditional solar cells. The team, led by Associate Professor Noriyuki Urakami from Shinshu University, focused on the predicted but previously untested a-In2Se3, creating a device that successfully demonstrated the BPV effect.

"Our a-In2Se3 device demonstrated quantum efficiency several orders of magnitude higher than other ferroelectric materials," said Prof. Urakami, adding that the discovery could impact the selection of materials for future photovoltaic devices.

The researchers hope their findings will contribute to renewable energy generation, accelerating the adoption of solar cells and advancing efforts toward a carbon-neutral society.

Research Report:Bulk photovoltaic effect of an alpha-phase indium selenide(a-In2Se3) crystal along the out-of-plane direction

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