Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

Canada has vast solar resources that are massively underutilized. Based on the amount of sunlight that falls on the country - its insolation - our solar potential is enormous, and at present, almost entirely untapped. In this proposal, we endeavour to remedy this discrepancy by producing inexpensive, high energy output solar cells through an approach based upon nanoscience. Based on very recent and sound economic studies, we propose to build nanostructured photovoltaic (solar) cells using nanoparticles made out of compound materials produced from elements that are cheap to extract, highly abundant in the earth's crust, and having the right repertoire of properties that render them extremely desirable for photovoltaic applications. Through a set of highly multidisciplinary collaborations and supporters with a team of researchers from the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, the National Institute for Nanotechnology, and Micralyne Inc. of Edmonton Alberta, we will incorporate these nanoparticles into controlled layered structures that are multifunctional - one or more layers absorb light to form an "exciton" which is then separated by other tailored layers into the electrical charges that are harnessed to do work. Through the application of surface chemistry and nanoscience, critical aspects of the solar cell will be manipulated to improve device performance, always utilizing approaches that are manufacturable and efficient. Following optimization of nanoparticle synthesis and the controlled layering methodology, with our industrial sponsor, we will push forward with the scale-up of the solar cell processing approach to roll-to-roll manufacturing with the goal of preparing very inexpensive photovoltaic devices. The program proposed here will result in a critical mass of highly trained scientists with skills in nanoscience, surface chemistry and engineering, photovoltaics research, and a honed sense of how industry translates results into commercialized products. Thanks to a close involvement with a highly successful local company, every step of the way, we anticipate many positive spin-offs, including training and product development that could have an important impact on Canada's energy future.