News Article
Magnolia Solar explores new limits on solar cell performance
The firm's aim is to increase both the current and voltage output of single-junction compound semiconductor cells
Roger E. Welser, Chief Technology Officer of Magnolia Solar, Inc., presented an invited paper at a SPIE Photonic West Conference on the Physics, Simulations and Photonic Engineering for Photovoltaic Devices.
The presentation, entitled "Exploring the Radiative Limits of Dark Current Operation in InGaAs Quantum Well Solar Cells," was made on January 23, 2012 in San Francisco, as part of a special session on Quantum Well and Superlattice Solar Cells.
Welser stated, "Magnolia Solar has developed a novel device structure that suppresses undesirable recombination events, enabling photovoltaic devices to reach new levels of performance. To better design and realise ultra high efficiency solar cells, we continue to explore the underlying physical mechanisms controlling the power output. The aim of our ongoing work summarised at the SPIE conference in San Francisco is to increase both the current and voltage output of single-junction cells by employing a quantum-structured active region and advanced light-trapping strategies. With this patent-pending approach, we expect to demonstrate high solar electric conversion efficiency over a wider range of operating conditions."
Ashok K. Sood, President and CEO of Magnolia Solar Corporation, stated, "Photovoltaic devices can provide a mobile source of electrical power for a variety of commercial and defense applications in both space and terrestrial environments. Many of these applications can directly benefit from enhancements in the efficiency of the photovoltaic devices. Magnolia Solar is developing and commercializing revolutionary new thin-film solar cell technologies employing nanostructured materials. In collaboration with our partners, we intend to update our shareholders as we continue the development effort for next generation high performance solar cells."
