Abstract: The present application relates to a copper oxide nanocrystal with a cupric oxide (CuO) shell surrounding a cuprous oxide (Cu2O) core. The copper oxide core/shell nanocrystals may be used as photo-absorbers in photovoltaic cells. The copper oxide core/shell nanocrystals form a p-type semiconductor layer that coats and fills the interstitial gaps of the n-type semiconductor mesoporous structure in a photovoltaic cell. The n-type semiconductor layer may include, for example, titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles.

Abstract: Apparatus for continuously micro-embossing a seamless precision optical pattern onto a moving substrate without the use of an intermediate layer, comprising an energy source, such as a laser, along with reduction optics, a mask and a moving substrate. The moving substrate provides both precision linear and rotational movement which motion is coupled with the laser projection imaging episode. Etched patterns can therefor be continuously and precisely ablated in the substrate to substantially cover the entire surface to uniquely micro-emboss therein a seamless precision optical image.