Simulating Intermediate Band Solar Cells as a tool for teaching semiconductor physics

Authors

  • Gabriel da Silva Macedo Departamento de Física, Departamento de Física, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Jovino Fernandes Sales 2600, Alfenas-MG, Brazil https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6425-4294
  • Raphael Cézar Pimenta Departamento de Física, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Roberto Sampaio Gonzaga s/n, Florianópolis-SC, Brazil https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2232-3356
  • Anibal Thiago Bezerra Departamento de Física, Departamento de Física, Universidade Federal de Alfenas, Jovino Fernandes Sales 2600, Alfenas-MG, Brazil https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9758-0117

Keywords:

Solar Cells, Semiconductors, Simulator

Abstract

Renewable energy sources are changing the way we live and one of the most promising examples is the use of solar cells to harness energy. With the increasing demand for clean energy, it's crucial to understand the underlying physical concepts behind the operation of solar cells. However, this can be a challenge, even for undergraduate physics students, as the concepts are often linked to nanoscale phenomena that don't have classical analogs. Additionally, the mathematical formalism can be difficult to grasp, as analytic solutions aren't always available. To overcome these obstacles, we propose to utilize modern programming platforms to numerically solve the Schrödinger equation in the context of intermediate band solar cells, a special kind of solar cells. With the code and simulator we provide, students can easily estimate eigenfunctions, eigenenergies, and absorption probabilities without struggling through manual calculations. This approach focuses primarily on how the devices work and helps students see the relationship between structural parameters and light-to-current conversion efficiency in real-life applications. Hence, using numerical tools and simulations to understand semiconductor device physics makes the learning process more accessible and engaging for students. It's a step forward in fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of renewable energy technology and its impact on our daily lives.

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Published

21-06-2023

How to Cite

da Silva Macedo, G., Cézar Pimenta, R., & Bezerra, A. T. (2023). Simulating Intermediate Band Solar Cells as a tool for teaching semiconductor physics. Sigmae, 12(2), 20–28. Retrieved from https://publicacoes.unifal-mg.edu.br/revistas/index.php/sigmae/article/view/2026

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 2 (2023): Happy kids playing

Section

Physics Education

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