Pyramid shape of polymer solar cells: a simple solution to triple efficiency

Journal article, 2013

Pyramid-shaped polymer solar cells fabricated on flexible substrates were investigated. Effective light trapping can be realized due to light reflection in all 360 degrees directions, and 100% space utilization is achieved when assembled into arrays. The power conversion efficiency is enhanced by 200% ([60] PCBM as the acceptor) and 260% ([70] PCBM as the acceptor) with a dihedral angle of 30 degrees between the opposite sides of the pyramid compared with a planar device, and a high V-oc of 3.5 V in series connection is obtained. Considering the material utilization, an angle of 90 degrees for pyramid-shaped polymer solar cells is proposed. Pyramid-shaped polymer solar cells are particularly suitable for installation on roof of vehicles and houses, which have limited surface area.