Photovoltaic Materials and Devices Group

Research Summary

The main focus of our group is to investigate novel materials and structures for next generation photovoltaic cells. Our methodology is based upon investigating the fundamental properties of new materials and systems, through various forms of optical spectroscopy and to correlate this knowledge to the operation of solar cell devices. Through this process we aim to gain a full understanding of the promise of such new materials for high-efficiency photovoltaics, determined by the physical mechanisms driving or inhibiting their operation.

Current projects performed in the group involve investigations of low-dimensional systems for third-generation PV including: quantum dot solar cells, multi-exciton generation, and hot carrier effects. Much of the focus of this work is on narrow-gap semiconductors such as epitaxial InAs, Antimonides, and quaternary III-V materials. Recently, we have also partnered with NREL to investigate carrier dynamics in perovskite materials and the stability of pervoskite solar cells.

We also have a strong activity to investigate the fundamental limitations of GaInNAs materials for multi-junction solar cell applications. This work is performed in collaboration with industrial partners at Amethyst Research Inc. in Ardmore, OK. In addition, we collaborate with MiaSole Hi-Tech. Corp., in Santa Clara, CA to investigate flexible CIGS solar cells for space power applications, with a specific emphasis on CubeSat and SmallSat technologies for outer planetary missions. Recently, we have also initiated a collaboration with Swift Solar to investigate the potential of pervoskite solar cells for space.

As well as partnerships with industry, the group also collaborates strongly with the groups of Professor Santos (MBE growth), Professor Saparov (Dept. Chemistry and Biochemistry), Professor Garg (Dept. Aerospace & Mechanical Eng.), and Professor Wang (Dept. Chemical, Biological and Materials Engineering) here at OU. We have fruitful partnerships with groups at University College London (U.K.), CRHEA-CNRS and the Institute of Photovoltaics, both in France, as well as here in the United States with the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (Washington D.C.), National Renewable Energy Laboratory (Golden, CO), Arizona State University, the University of North Texas, West Virginia University, SUNY-Buffalo, and the University of Tulsa. The group is also an active partner in the Oklahoma Photovoltaics Research Insitute, a statewide center to promote solar educations and research in Oklahoma!

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Dr. Ian R. Sellers (Head of Group)