Into the Quantum Verse

Overview

Problem/Objective: Conventional silicon solar cells inefficiently utilize ultraviolet (UV) light, with excess photon energy typically lost as heat rather than converted into electrical output. This study investigated whether red-emitting quantum dot (QD) films can improve solar cell electrical performance by converting UV photons into visible wavelengths more effectively absorbed by the cell. Procedure: A monocrystalline silicon solar cell was modified to allow insertion of quantum dot films beneath the protective layer without altering the cell’s structure. Red-emitting quantum dot films with peak emission wavelengths of 600 nm and 650 nm were tested individually and in combination. Voltage output was measured using a calibrated digital multimeter under controlled white LED and 365 nm UV light sources. Multiple trials were conducted for each condition to ensure repeatability. The independent variable was the wavelength of the quantum dot film, and the dependent variable was the open-circuit voltage output of the solar cell. Results: Under UV illumination, the unmodified solar cell produced an average voltage of 7.33 V. Application of the 600 nm quantum dot film increased voltage to 7.94 V (+8.38%), while the 650 nm film produced the highest output at 8.08 V (+10.20%). The combined 600+650 nm films resulted in an average voltage of 8.04 V (+9.71%). Voltage output under white LED light remained largely unchanged across all conditions. Conclusion/Discussion: Results demonstrate that red-emitting quantum dot films enhance solar cell voltage specifically under UV exposure by spectrally down-shifting high-energy photons into usable visible light. The 650 nm film was most effective, indicating that emission wavelength plays a critical role in optimization. These findings support quantum dot films as a practical method for improving photovoltaic performance without major redesign of existing solar technologies.

Competition history

• CSEF 2026 Physics & Astronomy (Senior Division) · Entry S-17-17

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