Luminescent films for efficiency improvement of solar photovoltaics

Together with our partners, we are developing spectral converting luminescent downshifting (LDS) thin films to tailor the solar radiation spectrum for improvement of power conversion efficiency of solar photovoltaics. Our LDS films allow tailoring of the solar radiation spectrum, through absorption of UV blue light and re-emission of near-infrared light, for a better match with the intrinsic spectral response of silicon photovoltaics. This research project focuses on the formulation of LDS films to study their feasibility for integration with existing silicon photovoltaics. We believe our LDS films will make impact in regions with high solar irradiance, such as sub-Saharan Africa, by providing means for improvement in productive energy to further develop the economic prosperity of local communities.

Progress update

Our team at Cranfield focuses on the prototyping, characterising and testing of LDS films to optimise their performance and service life. We have been developing a bespoke mechanised slot-die coating system and an environmental testing system to support the manufacture of large area LDS films and the investigation of their service life under realistic UV radiation, temperature and humidity conditions.