Abstract: The present invention features a solar-to-electric energy conversion device based on a light absorbing electrode coupled to a one-dimensional nanoparticle based photonic crystal. The function of the latter is to localize the incident light within the electrode thus enhancing the optical absorption and the power conversion efficiency of the so called dye-sensitized and organic (polymer based or hybrids) cell. The photonic crystal comprises alternating layers possessing different index of refraction and can be easily integrated into the cell.

Abstract: The present invention features a solar-to-electric energy conversion device based on a light absorbing electrode coupled to a one-dimensional nanoparticle based photonic crystal. The function of the latter is to localize the incident light within the electrode thus enhancing the optical absorption and the power conversion efficiency of the so called dye-sensitized and organic (polymer based or hybrids) cell. The photonic crystal comprises alternating layers possessing different index of refraction and can be easily integrated into the cell.

Abstract: The subject of the present disclosure is a multilayer nanoparticular, mesoporous structure that has properties of a Bragg reflector or of a unidimensional photonic crystal in the ultraviolet, visible and infrared ranges close to the electromagnetic spectrum. The unidimensional photonic crystal is formed by laminae with different indices of refraction and of a controlled size, made up of nanoparticles, which can be deposited on different types of substrates using a simple and reliable method. The periodic alternating of laminae with different indices of refraction gives rise to a high reflection factor which can easily be observed with the naked eye and can be measured with a spectrophotometer. In contrast to other, dense, reflective structures, the mesoporous structure of this reflector allows the passage of liquids.

Abstract: The present invention features a solar-to-electric energy conversion device based on a light absorbing electrode coupled to a one-dimensional nanoparticle based photonic crystal. The function of the latter is to localize the incident light within the electrode thus enhancing the optical absorption and the power conversion efficiency of the so called dye-sensitized and organic (polymer based or hybrids) cell. The photonic crystal comprises alternating layers possessing different index of refraction and can be easily integrated into the cell.

Abstract: The subject of the present disclosure is a multilayer nanoparticular, mesoporous structure that has properties of a Bragg reflector or of a unidimensional photonic crystal in the ultraviolet, visible and infrared ranges close to the electromagnetic spectrum. The unidimensional photonic crystal is formed by laminae with different indices of refraction and of a controlled size, made up of nanoparticles, which can be deposited on different types of substrates using a simple and reliable method. The periodic alternating of laminae with different indices of refraction gives rise to a high reflection factor which can easily be observed with the naked eye and can be measured with a spectrophotometer. In contrast to other, dense, reflective structures, the mesoporous structure of this reflector allows the passage of liquids.