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arXiv · 0907.4189

Reaching optimal efficiencies using nano-sized photo-electric devices

Bob Rutten·Massimiliano Esposito·Bart Cleuren
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Abstract

We study the thermodynamic efficiency of a nano-sized photo-electric device and show that at maximum power output, the efficiency is bounded from above by a result closely related to the Curzon-Ahlborn efficiency. We find that this upper bound can be attained in nano-sized devices displaying strong coupling between the generated electron flux and the incoming photon flux from the sun.

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Bob Rutten, Massimiliano Esposito, Bart Cleuren. 2009-07-23. Reaching optimal efficiencies using nano-sized photo-electric devices. https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevb.80.235122

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