GaAs/InAs multi quantum well solar cell

Abstract

In this thesis, Silvaco software is used to form a precise, well-controlled reliable, and inexpensive solar-cell structure using quantum wells. Successful results will allow the exploitation of most of the advantages of quantum-well systems. This challenging research represents the first time that Silvaco simulation software has been used in the design of such a solar cell. This research field is promising because of the potential to increase the attainable energy efficiency of solar photon conversion, due to tunable bandgaps, which can absorb most of the solar spectrum, which conventional single-layer crystalline solar cells cannot do. The ultimate goal is the assembly of a quantum-well layer. A theoretical infinite-layer cell can reach an efficiency of 86% (constrained by thermodynamical limits). Quantum wells can reach 65%+ when a multilayer cell has reached 49%, and it is very expensive to build.