High-efficient near-infrared quantum cutting based on broadband absorption in Eu2+–Yb3+ co-doped glass for photovoltaic applications

We report that Eu2+–Yb3+ system with high luminescent quantum efficiency and broadband excitation could be playing a significant role in solar cells. This borosilicate glass used as conversion layer can efficiently minimize the energy loss of thermalization. The cooperative energy transfer between Eu2+ and Yb3+ realized the emission of greenish and near-infrared light simultaneously with the blue light of xenon lamp excitation. The emission peaks located at 980 nm and 1,030 nm are the characteristic emission of Yb3+ with the energy matches well with the bandgap of silicon solar cells. The luminescent quantum efficiency is up to 163.5 % with the radiation rate being considered. Given the broad excitation band, high quantum efficiency and excellent mechanical, thermal and chemical stability, this system can be useful as down-conversion layer for solar cells.