Abstract: Functional nanoparticles may be formed using at least one nano-lithography step. In one embodiment, sacrificial material may be patterned on a multi-layer substrate using an imprint lithography system. The pattern may be further etched into the multi-layer substrate. Functional material may then be deposited on multi-layer substrate and solidified. At least a portion of the functional material may then be removed to provide a crown surface exposing pillars. Pillars may be removed from multi-layer substrate forming functional nanoparticles.

Abstract: Inorganic solar cells having a nano-patterned p-n or p-i-n junction to reduce electron and hole travel distance to the separation interface to be less than the magnitude of the drift length or diffusion length, and meanwhile to maintain adequate active material to absorb photons. Formation of the inorganic solar cells may include one or more nano-lithography steps.

Abstract: Solar cells having at least one N-type material layer and at least one P-type material layer forming a patterned p-n junction are described. A conducting layer may provide electrical communication between the p-n junction and an electrode layer.

Abstract: Methods for creating nano-shaped patterns are described. This approach may be used to directly pattern substrates and/or create imprint lithography molds that may be subsequently used to directly replicate nano-shaped patterns into other substrates in a high throughput process.

Abstract: Patterned active layers formed by nano-imprint lithography for use in devices such as photovoltaic cells and hybrid solar cells. One such photovoltaic cell includes a first electrode and a first electrically conductive layer electrically coupled to the first electrode. The first conductive layer has a multiplicity of protrusions and recesses formed by a nano-imprint lithography process. A second electrically conductive layer substantially fills the recesses and covers the protrusions of the first conductive layer, and a second electrode is electrically coupled to the second conductive layer. A circuit electrically connects the first electrode and the second electrode.