Plasmonic Photocurrent Electrode Structure for Visible-Light Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current photocurrent-generating electrodes do not effectively enhance the absorption efficiency of visible light, which limits their performance in solar cells and other applications.
Innovation Solution
A photocurrent-generating electrode comprising a supporting substrate, a first nanoparticle layer of spaced-apart noble metal nanoparticles, a second nanoparticle layer with larger nanoparticles electrically connected through the first layer, and a semiconductor nanostructure, which exhibits surface plasmon resonance to improve light absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a single layer of metal nanoparticles is used on the substrate, then the structure is simple, but the absorption efficiency of visible light is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the nanoparticle layer into two distinct layers: a first nanoparticle layer with smaller metal nanoparticles (5-20 nm) directly on the substrate, and a second nanoparticle layer with larger metal nanoparticles (20-50 nm) spaced apart on the first layer. This segmentation allows each layer to contribute differently to light absorption, with the first layer providing strong localized surface plasmon resonance and the second layer extending the absorption range, thereby resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and light absorption efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional single-layer structure to a three-dimensional multi-layer structure with vertical stacking. The first nanoparticle layer provides a foundation, while the second nanoparticle layer is positioned at a different vertical level with larger particles spaced apart, creating a hierarchical 3D architecture that enhances light trapping and absorption across multiple dimensions and wavelengths.
2Illumination intensity
If larger metal nanoparticles are used, then the surface plasmon resonance is enhanced, but the electrical connection between particles is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The first nanoparticle layer with smaller metal nanoparticles serves as an intermediary between the substrate and the second nanoparticle layer with larger particles. This intermediate layer provides both mechanical support and electrical connectivity, allowing the larger particles in the second layer to be electrically connected through the conductive first layer, thereby resolving the contradiction between enhancing surface plasmon resonance and maintaining electrical connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite nanoparticle structure where two different sizes of metal nanoparticles are combined in a hierarchical arrangement. The smaller particles in the first layer and larger particles in the second layer form a composite system that leverages the advantages of both size ranges: the smaller particles provide strong plasmonic response and electrical connectivity, while the larger particles extend the absorption spectrum and enhance overall resonance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The electrode achieves enhanced absorption of visible light and near-infrared light, leading to improved photocatalytic efficiency and increased photocurrent density, suitable for solar cells and water splitting applications.
Implementation Method 1
Two adjacent ones of the second noble metal nanoparticles are electrically connected to each other through a corresponding one of the first noble metal nanoparticles such that the second nanoparticle layer is capable of exhibiting surface plasmon resonance when stimulated by a visible light
Data Source
AI summary
A photocurrent-generating electrode includes a supporting substrate, a first nanoparticle layer, a second nanoparticle layer, and a semiconductor nanostructure formed on the second nanoparticle layer and having a biocompatible semiconductor nanomaterial. The first nanoparticle layer has first noble metal nanoparticles bonded to the supporting substrate. The second nanoparticle layer is formed on the first nanoparticle layer, and has second noble metal nanoparticles having an average dimension larger than an average dimension of the first noble metal nanoparticles. Two adjacent ones of the second noble metal nanoparticles are electrically connected to each other through one of the first noble metal nanoparticles.