Nanostructures for photovoltaics

The use of various nanostructures in new solar cell designs and modes of enhancing conventional solar cells are described. The cell designs and enhancements are categorized by the type of nanostructure utilized. These include: (a) bulk nanostructured materials [3D]: (b) quantum wells [2D]; (c) nanowires [1D]: and (d) quantum dots/nanoparticles [0D]. The methods of fabricating such structures are first described, followed by examples from the literature of how they have been utilized in a photovoltaic application. Scientific challenges associated with nanostructured photovoltaic devices are also discussed, followed by the prospects for use in real applications. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.