Nano architectures in silicon photovoltaics

Abstract

A historical trace of key developments in the science and engineering of photovoltaics introduces the reader to this important field of energy generation. An overview of photovoltaics and allied photonic architectures is presented including a synopsis of the relevant physics. A selected illustrative review of recent research results on the integration of wave-optic coupling nanostructures in silicon photovoltaics is given with an emphasis on the use of photonic crystal constructs. The chapter closes pondering the arc of development in silicon photovoltaics—the main stay of present day solar photovoltaics.