APPLICATION OF 3D GRAPHENE IN SOLAR TECHNOLOGY

INTRODUCTION There nothing else than a solution for

increasing demand of power. Solar panels are one of the most

popular tool for renewable energy. Solar technology with the nanomaterial

3D Graphene as the alternative. They are increasingly being used

particularly in warm countries, and more Eco-conscious countries like Germany.

WHAT IS 3D GRAPHENE?

Regular graphene is a famously two-dimensional form of carbon.

A unique 3D version with a honeycomb-like structure was discovered in 2013.

The thickness and chemical property differs a lot when compared with a regular graphene.

FORMATION OF 3D GRAPHENE

It is a combination of lithium oxide with carbon monoxide in a chemical reaction that forms lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) and the honeycomb graphene.

FESEM IMAGE OF 3D HONEYCOMB - STRUCTURED GRAPHENE

CONSTRUCTON OF 3D GRAPHENE SOLAR CELLS

3D graphene cells are encapsulated between films of polymer protecting the cells from the effect of moisture which would corrode the electrical connections.

Cells are connected in series by flat strips of copper soldered onto the front face of one cell and the rear face of the next.

A frame of aluminium is fitted around the edges to protect and stiffen the panel.

Platinum can be replaced by 3D graphene.

Flexible panels can be made by combining nano porous germaniun and graphene of 3D structure.

RESEARCH ON 3D GRAPHENE Researchers at MIT are studying solar cells

made from single molecule thick sheets of 3D graphene and materials such as molybdenum di selenide.

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a solar cell that almost eliminates losses due to reflection of light.

They use a 30 nanometer thick gold nanomesh with 3D Graphene along with an active layer thinner than the wavelength of light.

Researchers at MIT have developed a solar cell using 3D Graphene coated with zinc oxide nanowires.

Researchers at the Nies Bohr Institute have determined that sunlight can be concentrated in nanowires due to a resonance effect.

Researchers at Los Alamos National Lab have demonstrated a solar cell that uses a 3D Graphene quantum dot.

ADVANTAGES

Increase in efficiency(78%)of energy.

Eco-Friendly.Reduced installation cost.It has longer life span and can be

easily replaced. Panels can be made flexible.

APPLICATIONSCoating existing roofing materials with 3D Graphene cells then enough energy could be captured to power almost the entire house. 3D Graphene solar cells would also help provide electricity for rural areas or third world countries.Flexible layers of Nano porous germaniun and graphene of 3D structure to produce lightweight solar cells for mobile applications.

INSTALLING 3D GRAPHENE SOLAR PANELS IN WALLS OF BULIDINGS

FLEXIBLE 3D GRAPHENE SOLAR CELLS

LIGHTWEIGHT SOLAR CELLS FOR MOBILE APPLICATION

CONCLUSION Solar power is looking more and more

attractive, as other power generation methods such as fossil fuels and nuclear power come under increasing scrutiny.

Nano materials (“3D Graphene”) solar cells shows special promise to both enhance efficiency of solar energy conservation and also reduce the manufacturing cost.

It increases efficiency by increasing the absorption of light as well as the overall radiation-to-electricity would help preserve the environment, decrease wastage, provide electricity for rural areas, and have a wide array of commercial applications due to its capabilities.

R.SARAVANAN,K.SURESH KRISHNA,FIRST YEAR,MECHANICAL,KCG COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY.