2014 Volume 83 Issue 5 Pages 348-355
An intermediate band solar cell (IBSC) has the structure of a single junction solar cell with an energy band in the band gap, and there are high expectations for it to achieve a high conversion efficiency by an increase in the photoelectric current. Here, a quick path to the conduction band for electrons pumped from the valence band to the intermediate band is essential. In this article, we review recent progress regarding the fundamentals of IBSCs and the photo-carrier dynamics in the two-step two-photon process, which influences the conversion efficiency. Furthermore, we would like to offer a route to a practical realization of the IBSC.
