Asif Al Suny | Searcharxiv

arXiv2026

Optimization Algorithm-Assisted Nanostructure Engineering for Performance Enhancement of Thin-Film Solar Cells

A computation-based study is presented that utilizes the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method to perform optical simulations. These simulations were used to observe the effects of core-shell nanostructures with triangular cross-sections embedded inside the light absorbing layer of thin-film solar cells (TFSCs), for improving the optoelectronic performance. Despite extensive research, the relationship between the geometric parameters of light trapping nanostructures and TFSC performance is not yet fully elucidated. To assist in finding the optimal set of parameters, optimization algorithms are used to find a set of parameters that provide maximal short-circuit current density ($J_{SC}$). Three separate algorithms were applied, and the results were scrutinized in-depth with a sensitivity analysis, observing the effects of small changes in the optimal parameters. The optimal parameters of the nanostructure produced $J_{SC}$ values ranging from 28.90 to 35.39 mA/cm$^2$ compared to 13.69 mA/cm$^2$ for a reference TFSC with no nanostructure present. From the results of this study, it can be inferred that optimized periodic grating structures can provide substantial improvement in performance of TFSCs.

physics.optics↗

arXiv2025

Broadband Absorption in Cadmium Telluride Thin-Film Solar Cells via Composite Light Trapping Techniques

Composite light-trapping structures offer a promising approach to achieving broadband absorption and high efficiency in thin-film solar cells (TFSCs) in order to accelerate sustainable energy solutions. As the leading material in thin-film solar technology, cadmium telluride (CdTe) faces challenges from surface reflective losses across the solar spectrum and weak absorption in the near-infrared (NIR) range. This computational study addresses these limitations by employing a dual light trapping technique: the top surfaces of both the CdS and CdTe layers are tapered as nanocones (NCs), while germanium (Ge) spherical nanoparticles (NPs) are embedded within the CdTe absorber layer to enhance broadband absorption. Numerical simulations using Finite-Difference Time Domain (FDTD) and other methods are used to optimize the parameters and configurations of both nanostructures, aiming to achieve peak optoelectronic performance. The results show that a short-circuit current density ($J_{sc}$) of 35.38 mA/$cm^2$ and a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 27.76% can be achieved with optimal nanocone (NC) texturing and spherical Ge nanoparticle (NP) configurations, a 45.45% and 80.72% increase compared to baseline structure in $J_{sc}$ and PCE respectively. To understand the enhancement mechanisms, the study includes analyses using diffraction grating theory and Mie theory. Fabricability of these structures is also evaluated. Furthermore, an additional study on the effects of incident angle variation and polarization change demonstrates that the optimal structure is robust under practical conditions, maintaining consistent performance.

physics.optics↗