Design and optimization of cascaded DCG based holographic elements for spectrum-splitting PV systems

Yuechen Wu, Benjamin Chrysler, Silvana Ayala Pelaez, Raymond K. Kostuk

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

In this work, the technique of designing and optimizing broadband volume transmission holograms using dichromate gelatin (DCG) is summarized for solar spectrum-splitting application. Spectrum splitting photovoltaic system uses a series of single bandgap PV cells that have different spectral conversion efficiency properties to more fully utilize the solar spectrum. In such a system, one or more high performance optical filters are usually required to split the solar spectrum and efficiently send them to the corresponding PV cells. An ideal spectral filter should have a rectangular shape with sharp transition wavelengths. DCG is a near ideal holographic material for solar applications as it can achieve high refractive index modulation, low absorption and scattering properties and long-term stability to solar exposure after sealing. In this research, a methodology of designing and modeling a transmission DCG hologram using coupled wave analysis for different PV bandgap combinations is described. To achieve a broad diffraction bandwidth and sharp cut-off wavelength, a cascaded structure of multiple thick holograms is described. A search algorithm is also developed to optimize both single and two-layer cascaded holographic spectrum splitters for the best bandgap combinations of two- and three-junction SSPV systems illuminated under the AM1.5 solar spectrum. The power conversion efficiencies of the optimized systems under the AM1.5 solar spectrum are then calculated using the detailed balance method, and shows an improvement compared with tandem structure.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationNonimaging Optics
Subtitle of host publicationEfficient Design for Illumination and Solar Concentration XIV
EditorsRoland Winston, Sarah R. Kurtz
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Electronic)9781510612150
DOIs
StatePublished - 2017
EventNonimaging Optics: Efficient Design for Illumination and Solar Concentration XIV 2017 - San Diego, United States
Duration: Aug 6 2017Aug 7 2017

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume10379
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Other

OtherNonimaging Optics: Efficient Design for Illumination and Solar Concentration XIV 2017
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego
Period8/6/178/7/17

Keywords

  • Holography
  • Multi-junction PV
  • Solar energy
  • Spectrum splitting
  • Volume hologram

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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