Active Control of Scattering in Solar Cells and Smart Windows

In this talk, I will discuss experimental characterization, theoretical modeling, and device applications for light trapping in thin-film solar cells.  This includes our recent work measuring internal light scattering and a new model of scattering to predict the effects of dielectric nanoparticle back scatterers on thin-film device absorption. Using a generalized extension of this new model I investigate several applications of these techniques including polymer dispersed liquid crystals to produce switchable photovoltaic windows and steerable solar sails. Further I’ll show that these smart window devices have the potential for self-powering.