While this technology is a world away from being commercialized, it’s nice to know that folks are still tinkering. I’m lost on the technology but excited by the prospect. For a copy of the full presentation, click-here.
Columbus (OH) – Researchers at Ohio State University have accidentally discovered a new solar cell material capable of absorbing all of the sun’s visible light energy. The material is comprised of a hybrid of plastics, molybdenum and titanium. The team discovered it not only fluoresces (as most solar cells do), but also phosphoresces. Electrons in a phosphorescent state remain at a place where they can be “siphoned off” as electricity over 7 million times longer than those generated in a fluorescent state. This combination of materials also utilizes the entire visible spectrum of light energy, translating into a theoretical potential of almost 100% efficiency. Commercial products are still years away, but this foundational work may well pave the way for a truly renewable form of clean, global energy.
Source:
New solar cell material achieves almost 100% efficiency, could solve world-wide energy problems
Rick C. Hodgin, TG Daily, October 20, 2008
http://www.tgdaily.com/html_tmp/content-view-39807-113.html
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