New Energy
Okada Laboratory
Innovative R&D on next-generation high-efficiency solar cells and low-cost production technologies
Multiband Engineering in Thin Films for Intermediate Band Solar Cell
At Okada Laboratory, we conduct research on high-efficiency solar cells incorporating new semiconductor materials and quantum nanostructures in aim for doubling the efficiency of present solar cells. Quantum dots are semiconductor materials processed at the nanometer scale. They can confine the electrons within the dot and so often referred to as "artificial atoms." They can be used to enhance the output current and hence the efficiency by absorbing infrared light, which the conventional solar cells cannot harvest to generate power.
Thin film solar cells and substrate reuse
In addition, we are developing technologies aimed at reducing the production cost of high-efficiency solar cells. Since the substrate cost constitutes the highest proportion of the overall cost, we are advancing the epitaxial lift-off technology, which involves removing and reusing substrates from solar cells layers. The resulting thin-film solar cells, being flexible and lightweight after substrate removal, are suitable for applications such as space and automotive solar cells, aiming to expand the adoption of solar power generation. We also work on the wafer-scale synthesis of ultra-thin two-dimensional layered materials for solar cell and photodetector applications.
Schematic of a quantum dot solar cell
Thin-film solar cells by developed with ELO technique
Molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) is used to fabricate the solar cells
When thinking about global environmental issues,we often hear the phrase 'Think Globally, Act Locally.' It implies 'consider the global impact and take action in ways that you can as an individual.' However, for researchers, the important approach might be 'Think Locally, Act Globally.' In your daily life, put in your best effort and work hard in your given environment (your laboratory)(Think Locally). Then, present your research findings t o the wor l d , j o i n d iscussions through networks with research colleagues around the globe. Ideas and thoughts generated from these discussions will be fed back into your own research, allowing it to develop to the next level. Just as athletes are inspired by their rivals and strive to improve their own skills, researchers are both colleagues and competitors at the same time. To students and young researchers, I encourage you to develop the skills necessary to perform on a global stage (Act Globally). This is not only essential for the advancement of science and technology, but it also determines the strength of humanity as we tackle future global environmental and energy issues.
Member
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- Professor
Yoshitaka OKADA
Research Area: Next-generation solar cells, Semiconductor crystal growth, Epitaxial lift-off thin-film solar cells - Professor
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