A team of researchers at the University of New South Wales in Australia have set a new record for solar cell efficiency. A new multi-cell combination can convert 43 percent of sunlight to electricity, beating the previous record of 42.7 percent. While it's not a huge leap ahead, it does get us closer to that pivotal 50 percent mark.
The team increased the efficiency by combining the silicon cell with others made from gallium, indium, phosphorus and arsenic. This combination allowed the capture of light at the red and near-infrared end of the spectrum, boosting the electricity output.
Don't expect to see this combination in use anytime soon though. The semiconductors used are very expensive, but at least researchers are forging ahead and maybe a new record will be hit any day now using cheaper materials.
via Discovery News
written by Vladan, September 04, 2009
written by Garrett, June 22, 2010
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