Effect of surface plasmon resonance on the photoluminescence from Si quantum dot structures for third generation solar cell applications

Supriya Pillai, Joel J. Hohn, Craig M. Johnson, Gavin J. Conibeer

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference proceeding contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Low dimensional structures like quantum dots (QDs) offers the the ability to tune the absorption properties of standard semiconductor materials. However, QDs are relatively weak light absorbers and hence may benefit significantly from coupling with plasmonic modes in nearby metal structures. In the case of a Si QD absorber layer for photovoltaic applications, enhanced absorption would lead to improved power conversion efficiency. Silver metal nanoparticles (MNPs) were deposited on Si QD structures using the self-assembly method of evaporation and annealing. Room temperature photoluminescence (PL) measurements were used to study the surface plasmon (SP) enhanced emission from the samples. The results were compared to conventional metal back reflectors. Enhanced surface plasmon coupled emission (SPCE) from Si QDs in the vicinity of silver metal nanoparticles (MNPs) is observed with a good correlation between the enhancement and the resonance excitation. Quenching was observed from the same emitter layers placed in close proximity to thin flat silver reflector layers, indicating the importance of the spacer layer between a metal layer and the quantum dots in optimising enhancement. The results have implications for the design of SP-enhanced QD solar cells.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPhotonic and plasmonic materials for enhanced photovoltaic performance
Place of PublicationNew York
PublisherCambridge University Press (CUP)
Pages91-96
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)9781627482110
Publication statusPublished - 2011
Externally publishedYes
Event2011 MRS Fall Meeting - Boston, MA, United States
Duration: 28 Nov 20112 Dec 2011

Publication series

NameMaterials Research Society Symposium Proceedings
PublisherCambridge University Press
Volume1391

Conference

Conference2011 MRS Fall Meeting
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityBoston, MA
Period28/11/112/12/11

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Effect of surface plasmon resonance on the photoluminescence from Si quantum dot structures for third generation solar cell applications'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this