Beyond Conventional: Nanostructures as Key Enablers for Efficiency Enhancement in Thin Film Photovoltaics

Abstract

One of the key options for lowering the cost of photovoltaic production through the reduction of
active material utilisation is thin-film solar cells. However, thin film solar cells' performance may be
constrained by low light absorption brought on by a low absorption coefficient or by an inadequately
thick active layer. Minimising expenses and increasing overall efficiency in thin-film solar cells need
improving light absorption that can be converted into electrical power. As a result, light trapping
techniques are crucial to reaching this objective. Reducing incident light reflection, increasing light
absorption, and altering the device's optical response to suit various applications are the three basic
goals of light trapping techniques. Nanostructures employ essential sets of methods, including
progressive refractive index matching, directed modes, localised plasmon resonances, and surface
plasmon polariton modes, to achieve these objectives. In this paper, we review some of the most
recent developments in the creation and use of nanostructures for light trapping in solar cells. Among
them is the creation of solar cells with plasmonic and photonic nanostructures. These schemes' unique
advantages and difficulties are also covered and described.