Efficient near-infrared quantum cutting in NaYF4: Ho3+, Yb3+ for solar photovoltaics

Opt Express. 2011 Jan 31;19(3):1749-54. doi: 10.1364/OE.19.001749.

Abstract

Quantum cutting converting a ultraviolet photon into two near-infrared photons has been demonstrated by spectroscopic measurements in NaYF4:Ho3+,Yb3+ synthesized by hydrothermal method. Evidence is provided to confirm the occurrence of quantum cutting. Upon excitation of Ho3+ 5G4 level, near-infrared quantum cutting could occur through a two-step resonance energy transfer from Ho3+ to Yb3+ by cross relaxation, with a maximum quantum efficiency of 155.2%. This result reveals the possibility of violet to near-infrared quantum cutting with a quantum efficiency larger than 100% in Ho3+/Yb3+ codoped fluorides, suggesting the possible application in modifying the solar spectrum to enhance the efficiency of silicon solar cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Electric Power Supplies*
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Fluorides / chemistry*
  • Fluorides / radiation effects
  • Infrared Rays
  • Photochemistry / instrumentation*
  • Solar Energy*
  • Yttrium / chemistry*
  • Yttrium / radiation effects

Substances

  • sodium yttriumtetrafluoride
  • Yttrium
  • Fluorides