Optimization of a spectrum splitter using differential evolution algorithm for solar cell applications

Li Fan, Muhammad Faryad, Greg D. Barber, Thomas E. Mallouk, Peter B. Monk, Akhlesh Lakhtakia

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

Abstract

A spectrum splitter can be used to spatially multiplex different solar cells that have high efficiency in mutually exclusive parts of the solar spectrum. We investigated the use of a surface-relief grating made of dielectric materials for specularly transmitting one part of the solar spectrum while the other part is transmitted nonspecularly and the total reflectance is very low. A combination of (i) the rigorous coupled-wave approach for computing the reflection and transmission coeffients of the grating and (ii) the differential evolution algorithm for optimizing the grating shape was devised as a design tool. We used this tool to optimize two candidate gratings and obtained denite improvements to the initial guesses for the structural and constitutive parameters. Signicant spectrum splitting can be achieved if the angle of incidence does not exceed 15.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationNonimaging Optics
Subtitle of host publicationEfficient Design for Illumination and Solar Concentration XI
EditorsRoland Winston, Jeffrey M. Gordon
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Electronic)9781628412185
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014
EventNonimaging Optics: Efficient Design for Illumination and Solar Concentration XI - San Diego, United States
Duration: Aug 17 2014Aug 20 2014

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume9191
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Other

OtherNonimaging Optics: Efficient Design for Illumination and Solar Concentration XI
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego
Period8/17/148/20/14

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

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

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