Korean scientists have developed a hybrid solar cell that converts light and heat from the sun into electricity at five times normal efficiency. The hybrid solar-energy system harnesses the full spectrum of the sun's radiation by pairing a photovoltaic cell with polymer films. The films convert light that is unused by the solar cell into heat and converts the heat into electricity.

Researchers say the device produces a voltage in excess of five times greater than other hybrid systems. While solar cells continue to improve, commercial panels still harvest only part of the radiation they are exposed to. Many methods are being researched to improve efficiency including an approach to hybridize solar cells with different materials to capture more of the sun's energy.

Professor Kim Eunkyoung and colleagues turned to a clear, conductive polymer known as PEDOT [poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)]. TThe researchers layered a dye-sensitized solar cell on top of PEDOT film, which heats up in response to light. They added a pyroelectric thin film underneath and a thermoelectric device, both of which convert heat into electricity. Credit: Michael Mazengarb They reported that the efficiency of all components working together was more than 20% higher than the solar cell alone.

So far, the system can operate an LED lamp and an electrochromic display.

Related links:

For more information visit: Asianscientist

News articles:

Solar Technology Innovation Generates Electricity, Heat and Water

Compressed Air Energy Storage May Get a New Breath of Life