Study on multi-quantum barriers for use in quantum well solar cells

Quantum well solar cells (QWSC) extend the photon absorption edge beyond that of its bulk by incorporation of quantum wells in the i-region of a p-i-n device. When used in a QWSC, multi-quantum barriers (MQBs) can prevent the photo-generated electrons in the quantum well from leaking into p-side, and is therefore intended for a new method to reduce the dark current and enhance the photocurrent. Here we report on the performances of the MQBs for use in QWSC by dark current and photoluminescence measurement. It is found that the leakage possibility of the photo-generated electrons in the QW into p-side and thus the dark current is suppressed for solar cell with MQB compared with that without MQB.