Double Tungstates for Solar Panel Efficiency Enhancement

This paper presents an in-depth exploration of the potential use of double tungstates and molybdates as spectral converters of light, focusing primarily on their operation based on the down-conversion process. This research is expected to contribute significantly to advancements in solar panel applications, particularly by enhancing their efficiency. The absorption spectra were measured within the infrared spectrum for a group of crystals. This collection comprised two double tungstates, three double molybdates, and one single molybdate, each activated with varying concentrations of ytterbium. The absorption spectra's measurement aimed to investigate the potential of these crystals as spectral converters and determine the impact of the ytterbium concentration on their spectral properties. The ions of Yb³⁺ in the measured crystals exhibit a specific absorption characteristic, which is expected to produce luminescence. It is noteworthy that the luminescence lies near the forbidden zone of crystalline silicon. Crystalline silicon is extensively utilized in the manufacture of solar cells, implying that the observed luminescence could have significant implications for the solar energy industry. The results obtained from this investigation reveal a noteworthy relationship between the concentration of Yb³⁺ ions and the luminescence produced by the crystals. Understanding these relationships could potentially lead to advancements in solar panel technology by improving the panels' efficiency. This research could offer novel insights into the potential use of double tungstates and molybdates in enhancing the efficiency of solar panels. The results obtained here can provide a strong foundation for further research into this promising technology, potentially contributing significantly to the evolution of sustainable energy solutions.