Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) can help address the small absorption coefficients, limited band gap, and poor carrier recombination times that limit solar energy harvesting. The photonic enhancement due to light scattering and concentration improves absorption above the band edge of the semiconductor. Plasmon induced resonant energy transfer and hot electron injection can allow photoconversion at energies below the band edge, extending spectral conversion. Despite the enhancements possible with plasmonics, the switches that control which mechanisms are present and where the plasmonic enhancement is concentrated remain poorly understood. In this talk we will report on our combination of transient absorption spectroscopy and action spectrum/IPCE analysis with strategic materials design to discover the parameters that control and optimize plasmon enhanced solar energy harvesting. The possible enhancement routes will be shown from initial absorption and transfer to the long time scales necessary for improvements in performance, exploring how the interface and plasmonic field can affect charge carrier lifetimes. The results will guide efficient design strategies while exploring fundamental transfer mechanisms.

Plasmonic enhancement mechanisms in solar energy harvesting

250th National Meeting (2015)

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