Increasing the two-photon photocurrent saturation limit in a quantum ratchet intermediate band solar cell

Abstract

A quantum ratchet intermediate band solar cell based on a quantum well superlattice is investigated. The design is similar to that of a previously reported device, but it employs a stronger built-in electric field across the heterojunction; therefore, it works at higher illumination intensities before the photocurrent saturates due to photocarrier accumulation screening out the field and causing leveling of the bands. In this present device, saturation of the two-photon photocurrent occurred at a valence-to-intermediate band pulse energy of ∼4 nJ, approximately ten times greater than the previously reported device, making it more suitable for concentrator applications.