Zero-loss Energy harvesting Using nanowire solar cells in Space

Introduction

The ZEUS project is focused on advancing the development of innovative, highly efficient, and radiation-resistant nanowire solar cells designed for in-orbit solar energy collection. While current space-tested nanowire solar cells offer around 15% efficiency using single-band gap cells, ZEUS aims to significantly enhance this efficiency, potentially reaching up to 47%, by employing triple junction nanowire cells with a carefully selected set of III-V semiconductor materials.

Project Goals

To this end, this interdisciplinary project will also optimize nanowire surface passivation schemes to improve voltage and current matching of the solar cell. This project aims to achieve scalability through a peel-off technology that transfers solar cells onto lightweight, flexible substrates (creating a thin film), enabling the creation of large deployable photovoltaic panels.

Key Objectives

1. Enhancing the efficiency of radiation-resistant nanowire solar cells.
2. Scaling up wafer size to 100mm² and developing modules at a size of 1x1 cm².
3. Improving power conversion efficiency in breakthrough wireless power transmission systems based on III-V nanowire MOSFETs.
4. Reducing weight and material usage through nanowire peeling and wafer re-use.

Environmental Sustainability

Additionally, the project underscores its commitment to environmental sustainability by focusing on two key aspects: decarbonization and the efficient use of critical raw materials. By means of a life cycle assessment of nanowire solar cells, ZEUS seeks to demonstrate the environmental benefits and commercial potential, particularly for space energy generation.

Applications

This research has far-reaching applications, including integrating nanowire-based devices into stretchable polymer films (offering flexibility in solar cells, electronics, detectors, and LEDs), and self-powered nodes for IoT or cryogenic electronics.

Industrial Collaboration

An industrial advisor from Azur Space Solar will help the project with scalability and exploitation strategy.