Student research opportunities
Ultra-sensitive measurement of the absorption coefficient in silicon solar cells via photoluminescence.
Project Code: CECS_825
This project is available at the following levels:
PhD
Please note that this project is only for higher degree (postgraduate) applicants.
Keywords:
silicon, solar cells, absorption, photoluminescence
Supervisor:
Assoc Professor Daniel MacdonaldOutline:
This project will use measurements of the photo-stimulated light emission from silicon wafers, or photoluminescence (PL), in order to determine the absorption coefficient in silicon with extremely high precision. This is possible because of the direct reciprocal nature of the processes of emission and absorption. The project would use a new PL spectroscopy system in our lab, and some unusually high quality silicon wafers available to us, whihc are very well suited for this task. Would be co-supervised by Dan Macdonald and Daniel Walter.
Goals of this project
To measure very sensitive absorption data on silicon wafers using photoluminescence.
Requirements/Prerequisites
A good understanding and interest in semiconductors and/or solid-state physics. Would suit a student interested in pursuing a higher degree by research.
Student Gain
- Understanding of the fundamental emission and aborption processes in semiconductors, and their relevance to silicon solar cells.
- Experience with state-of-the-art research equipment.
