Optimizing the Aesthetics of High-Performance CuInS₂/ZnS Quantum Dot Luminescent Solar Concentrator Windows

Abstract

Laminated-glass, luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) offer localized and sustainable power generation combined with the customizable transparency needed for windows. Successful commercial deployment of LSC technology depends on the demonstration of economically viable efficiency, while maintaining excellent aesthetics. In this work, multiple-interlayer CuInS2/ZnS quantum dot (QD) LSC devices comprised of laminated glass are presented. Three-interlayer LSC designs demonstrated a certified electrical power conversion efficiency of 3.6%. Furthermore, a method of combining dyes and QDs is presented for tuning color toward true-gray from brown. These advances aim to enable LSC technology to be more rapidly adopted in the next generation of energy-efficient buildings.