Ultra-Thin Metal Films for Enhanced Solar Absorption

TL;DR

This study models optical absorption in ultra-thin nickel, gold, and silver films, revealing an optimal nickel thickness for maximum solar absorption due to its unique refractive index properties.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the optimal thickness of ultra-thin nickel films for solar absorption, based on modeling of their optical properties.

Findings

Nickel has an optimal thickness of 10-13nm for maximum absorption.

Strong absorption is linked to the similarity in real and imaginary refractive index parts.

Modelled results highlight potential for improved solar energy harvesting.

Abstract

This paper presents modelled results for optical absorption in ultra-thin films of nickel, gold and silver across the solar spectrum. It is found in the case of nickel there is an optimum thickness for maximum solar absorption around 10-13nm. It is believed that this is a result of the real and imaginary parts of its refractive index being of similar magnitude across the solar spectrum which can give rise to very strong thin film absorption.