Quantum dot solar cells face fundamental limitations in light absorption and charge collection, with current generation devices achieving power conversion efficiencies below 13%. The integration of plasmonic nanostructures introduces opportunities to manipulate light at the nanoscale, but controlling near-field interactions between metallic structures and quantum dots remains a significant technical challenge.

The core challenge lies in optimizing the spatial and spectral overlap between plasmonic resonances and quantum dot absorption bands while preventing unwanted energy losses and maintaining charge separation efficiency.

This page brings together solutions from recent research—including engineered optical wrinkle structures, zinc oxide nanoparticle optical antennas, near-infrared localized surface plasmon resonance architectures, and multi-bandgap quantum dot layers. These and other approaches focus on practical implementations that enhance both light absorption and charge collection while maintaining long-term stability.

1. Quantum Dot Solar Cell with Zinc Oxide Electron Transport Layer Featuring Engineered Optical Wrinkle Structure

NINGBO INSTITUTE OF MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo Hangzhou Bay New Materials Research Institute, 2024

Lead sulfide quantum dot solar cell structure and method that enhances photoelectric conversion efficiency through an optimized electron transport layer. The cell architecture incorporates a zinc oxide film with an engineered optical wrinkle structure as the electron transport layer, which enables efficient light utilization by the photoactive layer. This unique layer design enables improved absorption and utilization of incident light, thereby increasing short-circuit current density.

2. Heterojunction PbS Quantum Dot Solar Cell with Nano-Patterned PN Junction Layers and ZnO Nanoparticle Optical Antennas

SHENZHEN PLANCK QUANTUM SEMICONDUCTOR CO LTD, 2024

Heterojunction PbS quantum dot solar cell with enhanced light absorption and charge collection through nanostructured PN junction layers. The cell features a stacked glass substrate with a nano-patterned PbS quantum dot layer, followed by a PN junction layer with ZnO nanoparticles as optical antennas. The ZnO nanoparticles serve as efficient light-harvesting materials while maintaining electronic inertness, enabling improved charge collection and filling factor. The nanostructured architecture enables efficient light absorption and carrier transport through the PbS quantum dot layer, while the PN junction layer enhances charge collection at the contact interface.

3. Silver Telluride-Zinc Sulfide Core-Shell Quantum Dots with Variable Thermal Treatment Synthesis

UNIVERSITY OF ELECTRONIC SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF CHINA, 2024

Silver telluride-zinc sulfide core-shell structure quantum dots for enhanced solar concentrator performance. The dots achieve high near-infrared emission while maintaining environmental safety through the use of silver telluride and zinc sulfide. The core-shell structure provides improved stability and photoluminescence quantum yield compared to conventional quantum dots. The preparation method enables the synthesis of these quantum dots through a controlled thermal treatment process that preserves their photoluminescent properties.

4. Nanocomposite Material Comprising Near-Infrared Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Nanocrystals and Quantum Dots with Controlled Energy Transfer Mechanism

SICHUAN UNIVERSITY, 2024

Nanocomposite material of near-infrared localized surface plasmon resonance nanocrystals and quantum dots for efficient solar energy conversion. The nanocomposite material combines near-infrared localized surface plasmon resonance nanocrystals with quantum dots, achieving enhanced fluorescence quantum efficiency and near-infrared absorption through controlled energy transfer processes. The material's unique composition enables optimal resonance energy transfer between nanocrystals and quantum dots, while maintaining chemical stability and environmental sustainability. This nanocomposite material can be used as a building block for translucent luminescent solar concentrators that can concentrate energy in the near-infrared spectrum.

5. Integrated Quantum Dot System with Non-Toxic Quantum Dot Solar Cells, Concentrators, and Detectors

YANGTZE DELTA REGION INSTITUTE UNIVERSITY OF ELECTRONIC SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF CHINA, 2023

An integrated system for efficient and environmentally friendly solar energy conversion using quantum dot-based devices. The system combines quantum dot solar cells, quantum dot solar concentrators, and quantum dot detectors to improve light absorption, electron collection, and stability compared to conventional solar modules. The quantum dots are made from non-toxic materials like copper aluminum sulfur/zinc sulfide, copper aluminum sulfur/zinc selenide, and manganese-copper indium sulfur/zinc sulfide. The quantum dot solar cells have higher light absorption in the solar spectrum, while the quantum dot solar concentrators and quantum dot detectors enable efficient light extraction and electron collection. The integrated system allows optimized light utilization and stable operation compared to conventional solar modules.

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6. Quantum Dot Solar Cell with Stacked Multi-Bandgap Quantum Dot Layers

INSTITUTE OF SEMICONDUCTORS CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES, 2023

Multi-intermediate band quantum dot solar cell with improved efficiency by using multiple quantum dot layers with different bandgaps to absorb a broader range of low-energy photons. The cell has a stack of quantum dot layers on an N-type semiconductor, each layer having a different bandgap. This allows absorption of sub-bandgap photons that cannot be absorbed by a single intermediate band. The layers are sandwiched between N-type and P-type semiconductors to form a solar cell.

7. Quantum Dot-Based Transparent Solar Cells with Short-Wavelength Absorption and Emission Conversion

TRULY SEMICONDUCTORS CO LTD, 2022

Transparent solar cells that maximize the utilization of short-wavelength light in solar cells. The cells employ a quantum dot-based photovoltaic layer that absorbs and converts short-wavelength radiation, while simultaneously emitting longer wavelengths through excited state conversion. This dual-function layer enables efficient conversion of both visible and ultraviolet light, thereby increasing overall solar cell efficiency. The transparent cathode layer is optimized for maximum absorption of the absorbed short-wavelength light, while the encapsulation layer provides reflective protection for the excited quantum dot material.

8. Quantum Dots with Pyridine Ligands for Enhanced Photoelectric Conversion Efficiency

DAEGU GYEONGBUK INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 2022

Inorganic semiconductor quantum dots with pyridine-based ligands that enhance photoelectric conversion efficiency in solar cells. The pyridine ligands are incorporated into the quantum dots' surface, enabling improved light absorption and electron transfer properties. The pyridine ligands form a stable, monomolecular conjugate with metal oxide particles, effectively adsorbing the quantum dots onto the surface. This conjugate-based adsorption mechanism enables efficient light absorption and charge collection, leading to enhanced solar cell performance.

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9. Quantum Dot-Integrated Solution-Processed Semiconductor Matrix for Enhanced Open-Circuit Voltage and Short-Circuit Current in Solar Cells

QD SOLAR INC, 2022

A solar cell that achieves high open-circuit voltage (VOC) and short-circuit current (JSC) through the integration of quantum dots with different bandgaps in a solution-processed semiconductor matrix. The matrix enables the formation of a composite film with optimized optical absorption properties, specifically tailored to the infrared spectrum. By engineering the density of states in the quantum dots, the matrix achieves improved quasi-Fermi level splitting and increased VOC, while maintaining charge transport properties. This approach enables the realization of solar cells with significantly higher VOC and JSC than conventional Si-based solar cells, approaching the theoretical limit of 6% power conversion efficiency.

10. Quantum Dots with Zinc-Based Shell for Luminescent Solar Concentrators

KOC UNIVERSITESI, 2021

Quantum dots for efficient solar energy harvesting through luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs). The dots are synthesized using a novel zinc-based shell that enhances optical efficiency while maintaining biocompatibility. The zinc-based shell is derived from zinc stearate, which is prepared in an inert atmosphere. The zinc stearate solution is then used to synthesize the copper-doped InP/ZnSe quantum dots, which are encapsulated in a light-emitting device. The device is fabricated using a polymer matrix, with the zinc-based shell serving as the active component. The resulting LSCs achieve high optical efficiency comparable to state-of-the-art biocompatible quantum dots.

11. Si-Based Solar Cell Incorporating Ag/ZnSe/ZnS Quantum Dots with Core-Shell Structure

UNIV BINZHOU, 2021

Preparing a Si-based solar cell by utilizing Ag/ZnSe/ZnS quantum dots for improving the spectral conversion of a solar cell. The preparation includes using the plasmon effect of Ag nanoparticles as raw materials, taking ZnSe nano particles as raw materials and taking Zn (AC)2Dropwise adding the mixed alkali solution of MPA and the mixed alkali solution of MPA into the aqueous solution of ZnSe, cooling after heating reaction, and obtaining ZnSe/ZnS quantum dots with a core-shell structure through centrifugation and alcohol washing.

12. Solar Concentrator with CuGaS2/ZnS Core-Shell Quantum Dots and Stoichiometric Control

DALIAN INST CHEM & PHYSICS CAS, 2021

Solar concentrator using CuGaS2/ZnS core-shell quantum dots for efficient direct conversion of solar energy. The concentrator employs CuGaS2/ZnS core-shell quantum dots as luminescent materials, which exhibit superior photochemical stability compared to traditional semiconductor materials. The quantum dots are grown through a thermal injection method followed by epitaxial growth of a ZnS shell layer. This architecture enables precise control over absorption and emission spectra through stoichiometric adjustments of the metal precursors. The CuGaS2/ZnS core-shell quantum dots are used as a luminescent material to guide absorbed solar photons to the edge of the solar cell, where they excite the photovoltaic material through total reflection. The ZnS shell layer enhances the concentrator's optical efficiency by suppressing self-absorption loss. This concentrator design offers a non-toxic alternative to traditional cadmium-based materials while maintaining high efficiency.

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13. Core-Shell Quantum Dots with InAs-InP Shell Structure Formed by Continuous Injection Synthesis

NAT UNIV SINGAPORE, 2021

Core-shell quantum dots for luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) that achieve high efficiency and stability through a novel InAs-InP shell structure. The core-shell design enables efficient absorption of silicon solar cell light by the InAs core while the InP shell enhances emission through resonance energy transfer. The shell layers are formed through continuous injection synthesis, maintaining low precursor concentrations to prevent nucleation. The resulting quantum dots exhibit improved photostability and quantum yield compared to conventional cadmium-based materials, enabling large-area solar concentrator applications.

US2021071076A1-patent-drawing

14. Quantum Dot Solar Cells with Heat-Treated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Lead Sulfide Quantum Dot Layer

KOREA ELECTRIC POWER CORP, 2021

Quantum dot solar cells with enhanced light conversion efficiency through optimized zinc oxide nanoparticle synthesis and surface treatment. The solar cells achieve 9.29% light conversion efficiency by using heat-treated zinc oxide nanoparticles with reduced oxygen vacancies, which enables efficient charge carrier collection. The heat treatment process, performed at temperatures below 200°C, selectively fills oxygen vacancies in the nanoparticles while maintaining their structural integrity. The solar cells employ a novel lead sulfide quantum dot-based hole absorption layer with EDT ligand, which improves charge carrier mobility and stability. The solar cells feature a transparent indium tin oxide electrode, an electron transport layer made of heat-treated zinc oxide nanoparticles, and a light-absorbing layer comprising lead sulfide quantum dots with EDT ligand. The anode is formed by thermally depositing gold.

15. Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly Method for ZnSe/ZnS Core-Shell Quantum Dot Structures in Solar Cells

UNIV BINZHOU, 2021

A method for enhancing the efficiency of solar cells by using a layer-by-layer self-assembly ZnSe/ZnS core-shell structure with quantum dots. The method involves depositing ZnSe/ZnS quantum dots with negative surface charge and ZnSe/ZnS quantum dots with positive surface charge through a spin-coating process at low speeds. These core-shell structures are then assembled through layer-by-layer self-assembly to form a fluorescence down transfer layer. The core-shell structure enables efficient transfer of energy from ultraviolet photons to the solar cell's p-n junction, thereby improving spectral response and overall efficiency.

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16. Aluminum/Zinc-Copper-Indium-Selenium Quantum Dot Sensitizer with Ligand-Modified Surface Chemistry

UNIV EAST CHINA SCIENCE & TECH, 2020

Aluminum/zinc-copper-indium selenium quantum dot sensitizer for solar cells with improved surface defect reduction and enhanced absorption range. The sensitizer is prepared through a novel method that combines the synthesis of copper-indium-selenium alloy quantum dots with a specific ligand chemistry approach. The resulting sensitizer exhibits reduced surface defect states compared to conventional copper-indium-selenium quantum dots, leading to improved charge carrier lifetimes and reduced recombination rates in solar cells.

17. All-Solid-State Solar Cells with Simultaneous Quantum Dot and Photovoltaic Layer Deposition

UNIV HEFEI TECHNOLOGY, 2019

All-solid-state solar cells based on simultaneous deposition of quantum dots and a novel preparation method achieve high efficiency, low cost, and stability through a novel device architecture. The solar cells employ quantum dots as light-absorbing materials, which are deposited simultaneously with the photovoltaic layer through a novel deposition process. This approach eliminates the need for organic solvents and high-temperature processing, while maintaining the quantum dot's inherent properties. The device architecture enables efficient charge carrier collection and transport, resulting in improved photovoltaic performance compared to conventional quantum dot solar cells.

18. CuGaS2/CdS Core-Shell Quantum Dot with Enhanced Visible Spectrum Absorption and Stability

UNIVERSITY OF ELECTRONIC SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF CHINA, 2019

A CuGaS2/CdS core-shell quantum dot material with enhanced optical properties for solar energy conversion applications. The material comprises a CuGaS2 core with CdS shell, where the core is encapsulated by a CdS shell. The CdS shell enhances the material's absorption across the visible spectrum, while the CuGaS2 core provides the necessary light trapping capabilities for efficient solar energy conversion. The CdS shell also improves the material's stability and durability compared to traditional CdS-based quantum dots.

19. Nanostructures with Nanocrystal Core and Variable Thickness Inner Shell for Enhanced Stokes Shift

NANOSYS INC, 2019

Nanostructures exhibiting enhanced Stokes shift through controlled inner shell thickness and composition, particularly in quantum dots. The nanostructures feature a nanocrystal core with a thin inner shell layer, where the shell thickness ranges from 0.01 nm to 0.35 nm. This composition enables the nanostructures to achieve Stokes shifts of 25 nm to 125 nm, significantly improving photoluminescence quantum yield compared to conventional quantum dots.

US2019273178A1-patent-drawing

20. Quantum Dot-Based Solar Cells with Organic Hole Transport Layer and Metal Oxide Quantum Dot Electron Transport Layer

Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, SK Innovation Co., Ltd., SK Innovation Co., Ltd., 2019

Quantum dot-based solar cells with enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) and improved manufacturing process. The solar cells employ a novel organic hole transport layer on a transparent conductive electrode, followed by a quantum dot layer containing inorganic semiconductor quantum dots, and an electron transport layer comprising metal oxide quantum dots. The solar cells achieve PCEs of 1.5 times or more compared to conventional silicon-based solar cells, with the electron transport layer and quantum dot layer thicknesses optimized to achieve efficient charge separation.

21. Photoanode with Multilayer Quantum Dot Architecture for Enhanced Light Absorption

SHAANXI UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, 2019

Preparing a photoanode of a quantum dot sensitized solar cell with enhanced light absorption through multilayer architecture. The method involves creating a photoanode with a multilayer structure comprising multiple layers of quantum dots, each layer optimized for specific spectral absorption characteristics. This multilayer design enables improved light trapping, expanded spectral absorption, and enhanced light absorption compared to conventional single-layer photoanodes.

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22. Cadmium-Free Semiconductor Nanocrystals with Core-Shell Architecture and Narrow Emission Spectrum

SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD, 2019

Cadmium-free semiconductor nanocrystal particles exhibiting improved photoluminescence properties through controlled core-shell architecture. The novel quantum dots feature a core comprising zinc, selenium, and tellurium, with a shell comprising a different semiconductor material, such as zinc, sulfur, or selenium. This core-shell design enables precise control over the semiconductor material composition and lattice mismatch at the interface, resulting in a quantum dot with a narrow full width at half maximum (FWHM) and emission peak wavelength of less than 470 nm. The quantum dots can be used in display devices, biosensors, photodetectors, solar cells, and hybrid composites, offering enhanced photoluminescence efficiency compared to traditional cadmium-based materials.

US2019153317A1-patent-drawing

23. Graphene Schottky Junction Solar Cells with Multilayer InAs Quantum Dot Intermediate Bands

SOUTH CHINA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, 2018

Graphene Schottky junction solar cells with enhanced photoelectric conversion efficiency through the incorporation of quantum dot intermediate bands. The solar cells incorporate multilayer InAs quantum dots into the graphene Schottky junction structure, where the quantum dots interact with each other and the graphene to generate intermediate bands in the GaAs bandgap. This mutual coupling enables broad absorption of the solar spectrum, leading to improved conversion efficiency compared to conventional GaAs-based Schottky junctions.

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24. Synthesis of ZnO Nanocrystals with Tailored Morphologies for Nanorod-Like Structured Photoanodes in Quantum Dot Sensitized Solar Cells

UNIV QINGDAO, 2018

Preparing quantum dot sensitized solar cell nanorod-like structured photoanodes through controlled synthesis of ZnO nanocrystals with tailored morphologies. The method enables the creation of photoanodes with specific nanostructures, such as flower-like, flaky, or forest-like nanostructures, which enhance carrier mobility and light absorption. The synthesis process involves precise control over the ZnO crystal growth conditions to achieve optimal nanostructure properties. These nanostructures can be used as sensitizers in quantum dot sensitized solar cells, offering improved photoelectric conversion efficiency compared to conventional TiO2-based photoanodes.

25. Cadmium Sulfide Quantum Dot/Silicon Nanoporous Pillar Solar Cell with Continuous Ion Layer Adsorption Doping

UNIV HENAN POLYTECHNIC, 2018

Cadmium sulfide quantum dot/silicon nanoporous pillar solar cell with enhanced conversion efficiency through a novel doping method. The method employs continuous ion layer adsorption to dope cadmium sulfide onto nanoporous silicon pillars, followed by a surface treatment process. This approach enables the creation of cadmium sulfide quantum dots with enhanced absorption characteristics, resulting in improved light absorption and conversion efficiency in cadmium sulfide/silicon solar cells.

26. Quantum Dot Solar Cells with Controlled Chemical Bath Deposition on Photoanodes

SOUTH CHINA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, 2018

Quantum dot solar cells prepared through a novel light-absorbing coating process that enables efficient deposition of high-quality quantum dots on photoanodes without compromising photovoltaic performance. The coating process involves depositing quantum dots onto photoanodes through a controlled chemical bath deposition method, followed by assembly of the solar cell components into a sandwich structure. This approach addresses the limitations of traditional methods by enabling direct deposition of quantum dots on photoanodes while maintaining high quantum dot quality and uniform distribution.

CN107742580A-patent-drawing

27. Solar Cell with Multilayer Type II Quantum Well and Type I Quantum Dot Active Region Structure

Nanjing Tech University, NANJING TECH UNIVERSITY, 2017

Solar cell with improved photoelectric conversion efficiency through the use of a multilayer quantum well/1 type quantum dot structure in the active region. The cell features a lower electrode, a lower contact layer, a back field layer, an active region layer, a window layer, and an upper contact layer arranged from bottom to top. The active region layer comprises a multilayer type II quantum well/1 type quantum dot laminated structure, where the type I quantum dot layer is positioned on top of the type II quantum well layer. This configuration enables the efficient separation of electron and hole wave functions, which is critical for achieving high conversion efficiency in solar cells.

CN106298992B-patent-drawing

28. Solar Cell with Dual Quantum Dot Sensitizers Incorporating Solid and Uniform Hollow Quantum Dots

TIANJIN NORMAL UNIVERSITY, 2017

A solar cell that combines the benefits of quantum dots with a novel approach to sensitization. The cell employs both solid and hollow quantum dots as sensitizers, with the hollow quantum dots having a uniform chemical composition. This dual-sensitizer architecture enables broader light absorption across the solar spectrum, significantly enhancing the cell's photovoltaic performance compared to traditional solid quantum dot sensitizers.

CN107134369A-patent-drawing

29. Quantum Dots Comprising Copper Sulfide-Embedded Lead Sulfide Nanocrystals for Enhanced Surface Plasmon Resonance

AJOU UNIV INDUSTRY-ACADEMIC COOP FOUND, 2017

PbS-based quantum dots for solar cells that enhance surface plasmon resonance and improve light absorption efficiency. The quantum dots contain copper sulfide (CuS) embedded in the surface of lead sulfide (PbS) nanocrystals, which enables efficient surface plasmon resonance while maintaining high light absorption. This approach enables thin light-absorbing layers in solar cells, where conventional thick quantum dot layers would typically be required. The CuS incorporation enables surface plasmon resonance enhancement without compromising the quantum dot's optical properties.

30. Multi-Layered InP Quantum Dot Structure in InGaP Semiconductor for Wide-Gap Solar Cell

AIST, 2017

A solar cell with enhanced quantum dot-based conversion using a wide-gap semiconductor material. The cell employs a multi-layered InP quantum dot structure in an InGaP base semiconductor, where each InP layer contains a specific InP quantum dot population. The structure is fabricated through repeated InGaP and InP layer stacking, with each InGaP layer serving as a base semiconductor. The InP quantum dots, with their large energy gap, enable efficient two-step light absorption through charge separation, while the InGaP layers provide the base semiconductor functionality. This multi-layered InP quantum dot structure enables the formation of a wide-bandgap solar cell with enhanced quantum dot-based conversion efficiency.

JP2017143177A-patent-drawing

31. Quantum Dot Solar Cells with Self-Assembled Monolayer Interface Containing Benzene Ring for Enhanced Stability and Efficiency

UNIST(ULSAN NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY), Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, 2017

Quantum dot solar cells with enhanced efficiency through a novel interface modification. The solar cells incorporate a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) layer at the interface between the quantum dot layer and a metal oxide layer, which contains a benzene ring with pi-pi interaction. This SAM layer protects the quantum dots from ligand exchange damage during the deposition process, leading to improved photovoltaic performance. The solar cells achieve a power conversion efficiency of 10.7% and demonstrate enhanced current density, voltage, and charging efficiency compared to conventional quantum dot solar cells.

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32. Quantum Dot Solar Cells with Ligand Exchange-Induced Surface Chemistry and Bandgap Modulation

KOOKMIN UNIVERSITY INDUSTRY ACADEMY COOPERATION FOUNDATION, 국민대학교산학협력단, 2017

Optimizing quantum dot solar cell performance through precise control of quantum dot surface chemistry and material properties. The method employs a novel ligand exchange process that precisely binds ligands to quantum dots, enabling targeted modulation of their surface chemistry and bandgap energy. This approach enables the creation of quantum dot solar cells with improved short-circuit current density, open-circuit voltage, figure of merit, and power conversion efficiency by precisely controlling the quantum dot surface chemistry and bandgap energy.

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33. Quantum Dot-Polythiophene Core-Shell Nanostructure with Functionalized Conjugated Polymer Layer

한남대학교 산학협력단, HANNAM UNIVERSITY INSTITUTE FOR INDUSTRY-ACADEMIA COOPERATION, 2017

Quantum dot-polythiophene hybrid nanostructure and photovoltaic device that enhances solar cell efficiency by integrating quantum dots with conjugated polymers. The hybrid nanostructure comprises a core layer of quantum dots and a polythiophene compound with pi-conjugated bonds as an outer layer. The polythiophene compound is chemically synthesized and functionalized with a specific group at its end. This core-shell architecture enables controlled energy transfer and charge transfer between the quantum dots and conjugated polymer, resulting in improved photovoltaic performance.

34. Core-Shell Silver-Indium Selenium-Sulfur Quantum Dots with Zinc Sulfide Shell for Transparent Photovoltaic Applications

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 2017

Silver-indium selenium-sulfur near-infrared quantum dots for transparent photovoltaic smart windows with enhanced optical efficiency. The quantum dots have a core-shell structure with a zinc sulfide shell and a silver-indium selenium-sulfur core. The zinc sulfide shell provides excellent transparency, while the silver-indium selenium-sulfur core enhances fluorescence efficiency and quantum yield. The quantum dots are prepared through a novel method that eliminates heavy metal ions and coloring issues, enabling their use in transparent photovoltaic applications. The prepared quantum dots can be dispersed in a polymer matrix to form a transparent solar concentrator that can replace traditional silicon-based solar cells while achieving high optical efficiency.

35. Rare Earth Colloidal Quantum Dots Synthesized via Low-Temperature Hydrothermal Method for Integration with Titanium Dioxide

UNIV NANCHANG HANGKONG, 2017

Rare earth colloidal quantum dots prepared through a low-temperature hydrothermal method are used to enhance the efficiency of quantum dot solar cells. The colloidal quantum dots are synthesized in an organic phase and assembled with titanium dioxide to form a solar cell. The colloidal quantum dots have unique optical and electronic properties that enable efficient charge separation in the solar cell. The assembled solar cells exhibit high photoelectric conversion efficiency, making them a promising alternative to traditional silicon-based solar cells.

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36. Solar Cell with Quantum Dot-Infused Metal Oxide Composite Layer

KOREA INSTITUTE OF MACHINERY & MATERIALS, Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials, KOREA ADVANCED INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 2016

Solar cell with enhanced light conversion efficiency through the integration of quantum dots in a metal oxide composite layer. The solar cell comprises a transparent electrode, a metal oxide composite layer with mixed metal oxide particles and metal particles, and a counter electrode. The composite layer contains quantum dots that selectively absorb and convert light across the visible spectrum, while the metal oxide particles enhance charge transport and stability. The counter electrode is positioned between the quantum dot layer and the metal oxide composite layer, with additional metal oxide components for improved charge balance and stability.

37. Solar Cell with Superlattice Semiconductor Layer and Enhanced Optical Path Length for Quantum Dot Absorption

NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION TOKYO UNIVERSITY, 2016

A solar cell design that enhances quantum dot absorption through an optimized optical path length. The design incorporates a superlattice semiconductor layer with quantum dots, where the barrier layer is engineered to increase the optical path length of intersubband transitions. This approach enables more efficient absorption of light in the 1100-1600 nm and 2200 nm spectral ranges, particularly for quantum dots with narrow bandgaps. The optical path length increasing elements, including texture structures and reflective films, further enhance absorption by increasing the optical path length of intersubband transitions.

JP2016127183A-patent-drawing

38. Colloidal Quantum Dot-Sensitized Solar Cell Substrate with Controlled Quantum Dot Size and Distribution

Shanghai Normal University, SHANGHAI NORMAL UNIVERSITY, 2016

A colloidal quantum dot-sensitized solar cell substrate with improved conversion efficiency through precise control of quantum dot size and distribution. The substrate incorporates colloidal quantum dots with controlled particle sizes and closely packed structures, enabling efficient light absorption and charge carrier collection. The precise control of quantum dot size and distribution enables optimal absorption and charge transport properties, resulting in higher conversion efficiency compared to conventional colloidal quantum dot solar cells.

CN103178126B-patent-drawing

39. Multi-Junction Hetero-Mass Dot Array with Controlled Band Gap Quantum Dots and Method of Multilayer Deposition

SUZHOU XIEXIN INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION INSTITUTE CO LTD, Suzhou GCL Industrial Applications Research Institute Co., Ltd., 2016

Multi-junction hetero-mass dot array and preparation method for solar cells that achieve higher conversion efficiency through precise control of semiconductor material band gaps. The array consists of isolated quantum dots with varying band gaps, ranging from 0.6 to 2 eV, which are arranged in a controlled distance of 0.5 to 3 nm. This enables efficient generation of multiple excitons while maintaining carrier mobility. The preparation method involves multilayer deposition of silicon and zirconium oxides, followed by precise control of quantum dot size and spacing. The resulting hetero-mass dot array enables higher conversion efficiency compared to conventional single-junction solar cells.

CN103489939B-patent-drawing

40. Nanoshell-Based Photovoltaic Cells with PbS Quantum Dots and Metal-Dielectric Core-Shell Structure for Enhanced Infrared Absorption

UNIV TORONTO, 2015

Nanoshell-based photovoltaic cells that enhance infrared absorption through near-field plasmonic effects. The cells incorporate PbS colloidal quantum dots with a spherical dielectric core and metal shell, where the core has an average diameter of 25-100 nm and the shell has an average thickness of 2-50 nm. The plasmonic nanoparticles are positioned to maximize near-field scattering effects, specifically in the infrared spectrum, while maintaining optimal absorption characteristics for visible light. This approach enables significant enhancement of infrared absorption beyond conventional quantum dot solar cells.

41. Hybrid Quantum Dot Organic Solar Cells with Integrated PbS Quantum Dot Thin-Film Photosensitizer

UNIST ACADEMY-INDUSTRY RESEARCH CORP, 2015

Hybrid quantum dot organic solar cells (HyQDOSC) that achieve higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) than conventional solar cells by leveraging thin-film quantum dot layers. The novel approach involves integrating PbS quantum dots into organic photovoltaic layers, where their photoluminescent properties enable efficient absorption in the near-infrared spectrum. The photovoltaic layer itself is comprised of a conjugated polymer (PTB7) and a bulk heterojunction (BHJ) material. A thin-film PbS quantum dot layer with a thickness comparable to the photovoltaic layer thickness is used as a photosensitizer, enabling enhanced photocurrent generation through localized exciton absorption. The solar cell achieves PCEs above 10% by combining the benefits of both quantum dot and organic photovoltaic materials.

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42. Solar Energy Battery Incorporating Indium Linoleate-Doped Lead Telluride Quantum Dots

BEIJING INFORMATION SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY UNIVERSITY, 2015

A solar energy battery with enhanced quantum dot sensitization through an optimized doping process. The invention involves modifying lead telluride (PbTe) quantum dots with indium linoleate (IL) to improve their photoelectric properties. The IL-doped PbTe quantum dots exhibit enhanced absorption and injection characteristics, leading to improved quantum dot sensitization and conversion efficiency. The modified PbTe quantum dots are then incorporated into a solar cell structure, enabling higher short-circuit current densities and improved overall conversion efficiency compared to conventional sensitization methods.

43. Solar Cell with Heterojunction Quantum Dot and Schottky Junction Featuring Förster Resonance Energy Transfer

KOREA RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND SCIENCE, ?????????, 2015

High-efficiency solar cell using quantum dots and Schottky junctions that achieves maximum photocurrent conversion through enhanced energy transfer. The cell comprises a heterojunction quantum dot with a quantum well structure and a Schottky junction solar cell. The quantum dot transfers electron-hole pairs to the Schottky junction through Förster resonance energy transfer, while the Schottky junction provides efficient current collection. The cell's architecture enables broad absorption of solar photons through the quantum dot's quantum well structure, followed by efficient energy transfer to the Schottky junction.

44. Nanoparticle Materials with Dual-Functional Surfactant Layer for Enhanced Carrier Transport

MURATA MANUFACTURING CO LTD, Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd., 2015

Nanoparticle materials and photoelectric conversion devices that enhance carrier transport efficiency through the creation of a dual-functional surfactant layer. The surfactant layer, comprising a hole-transporting and electron-transporting component, enables carrier confinement within ultrafine quantum dots. This dual-functional surfactant layer prevents carrier recombination at the surface while facilitating efficient carrier transport through resonance tunneling. The dual-functional surfactant layer is particularly effective in photoelectric conversion devices, such as solar cells and light-emitting diodes, where carrier transport efficiency is critical.

CN102576746B-patent-drawing

45. Battery with Cadmium Sulphide Quantum Dot-Sensitized Platinum Cathode on Indium Tin Oxide Nanotube Framework

TIANJIN UNIVERSITY, Tianjin University, 2015

Solar energy battery using cadmium sulphide quantum dots as sensitizers in a platinum cathode, with an indium tin oxide (ITO) nanotube framework. The nanotube framework provides a transparent and conductive substrate for the quantum dots, while the cadmium sulphide quantum dots enhance the solar cell's efficiency through their narrow bandgap and high quantum yield. The ITO nanotube framework enables efficient electron transport and prevents light absorption issues typically associated with traditional quantum dots.

46. Solar Cells Incorporating Up-Conversion Nanoparticles and Plasmonic Resonators with Gap Plasmon Resonance

Korea Institute of Science and Technology, KOREA INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 2015

Solar cells with enhanced light conversion efficiency through the integration of up-conversion nanoparticles with plasmonic resonators. The solar cells incorporate GPRs with up-conversion nanoparticles that exploit the resonant enhancement of light emission through gap plasmon resonance. The resonant structure, comprising metal nanoparticles and protrusions, creates a localized electromagnetic field that amplifies the up-conversion process. This approach enables efficient conversion of visible light into infrared radiation, thereby increasing the solar cell's overall luminous efficiency.

KR101489913B1-patent-drawing

47. Quantum Dot Solar Cell with Conductive Polymer Layer Integration via Hybrid Structure Formation

Pohang University of Science and Technology Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation, POSTECH ACADEMY-INDUSTRY FOUNDATION, 2015

Manufacturing a quantum dot solar cell with improved efficiency through a novel approach to integrating quantum dots with conductive polymer layers. The method involves forming a conductive polymer layer on electrodes with different polarities, followed by the deposition of quantum dots on the polymer layer. This creates a hybrid structure where the polymer layer acts as a carrier for the quantum dots, enhancing their absorption and collection properties. The polymer layer can be made from various materials, including P3HT, PCDTBT, and PCTDTBT, and can be formed through various coating techniques, including spin coating, dip coating, and spray coating. The polymer layer serves as a carrier for the quantum dots, while the quantum dots themselves are dispersed in the polymer matrix. This approach enables the creation of solar cells with enhanced light absorption and collection efficiency, potentially leading to higher conversion efficiencies compared to conventional quantum dot solar cells.

KR101489777B1-patent-drawing

48. InGaAs Quantum Dot Solar Cell with Epitaxial Growth and Composite Anti-Reflection Coating

SUZHOU QIANGMING PHOTOELECTRIC CO LTD, 2015

InGaAs quantum dot solar cell with optimized structure and materials for enhanced efficiency. The solar cell employs a novel epitaxial growth process that incorporates a specific anti-reflection coating strategy to improve the quantum dot solar cell's performance. The coating, comprising a composite of magnesium fluoride and zinc sulfide, provides a high-quality surface for the quantum dot layers, while the pressure welding and packaging process ensures precise assembly of the solar cell components. The optimized structure enables the creation of high-density, multiple-layer quantum dot solar cells with improved absorption matching to the solar energy spectrum.

CN104332511A-patent-drawing

49. Nano Solar Cell with Vertically Grown Nanowire Quantum Dots and Multi-Quantum Well Metal-Semiconductor Interface

INDUSTRIAL COOPERATION FOUNDATION CHONBUK NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, 2015

Nano solar cell with enhanced light transmission through surface plasmon resonance. The cell features vertically grown nanowire quantum dots with droplet shapes, surrounded by a multi-quantum well structure. These nanodots are filled with metal droplets that form a metal-semiconductor interface. The cell's transparent electrode is bonded to the semiconductor layer, with metal contacts bonded to the substrate surface. The nanowire structure is grown on a semiconductor substrate, followed by the formation of the multi-quantum well and metal droplets. The resulting structure enables efficient light transmission through surface plasmon resonance, significantly enhancing the solar cell's energy conversion efficiency.

KR20150006942A-patent-drawing

50. Nano Solar Cells with Vertically Grown Nanowires, Quantum Dots, and Metal Droplets for Enhanced Light Transmission via Surface Plasmon Resonance

INDUSTRIAL COOPERATION FOUNDATION CHONBUK NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, 2015

Nano solar cells with enhanced light transmission and electron-hole generation through surface plasmon resonance. The cells feature vertically grown nanowire structures on a substrate, with quantum dots and metal droplets formed within the quantum well. The nanowire structures are grown using a novel TMGa and NH3 process, while the quantum dots are created through a TMIn and NH3 process. The metal droplets are deposited on the nanowire surface, enhancing light transmission through surface plasmon resonance. The cells incorporate a transparent electrode and metal contacts for electrical connections.

KR20150006943A-patent-drawing

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