A simple two-layer broadband metamaterial absorber for solar cells

A broadband absorber composed of silicon rods and nickel ground is proposed in the visible band. The absorption above 98% can be obtained in the frequency range of 478 similar to 1044 THz with strong polarization independence and angle independence. The impedance matching theory and field distributions of eigenmodes are used to analyze the physical mechanism of the broadband absorption. The absorber has a simple structure with only two layers, which is composed of silicon and nickel. Nickel is a non-precious metal, which is cheaper than the precious metal materials commonly used in metamaterial absorber. The proposed cost-effective absorber with simple structure has great potential in the application of solar cells.

Automated summary

The proposed broadband absorber, consisting of silicon rods and nickel ground, achieves high absorption efficiency in the visible band with strong polarization and angle independence. The physical mechanism is analyzed through impedance matching theory and field distributions of eigenmodes. With a simple structure and cost-effective materials, this absorber shows great potential for application in solar cells.