Micro-cone arrays enhance outcoupling efficiency in horticulture luminescent solar concentrators

TL;DR

This paper introduces micro-cone arrays on luminescent solar concentrators to significantly improve light outcoupling efficiency, enhancing spectral conversion for horticulture while providing diffuse light beneficial for plant growth.

Contribution

The study presents a novel micro-patterned surface design that boosts outcoupling efficiency in LSCs, enabling more effective spectral conversion for horticultural applications.

Findings

Maximum EQE of 37.73% estimated via Monte-Carlo ray tracing

53.78% improvement in efficiency over conventional LSCs

Structured LSCs provide beneficial diffuse light for plants

Abstract

Luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) have shown the ability to realize spectral conversion, which could tailor solar spectrum to better match photosynthesis requirements. However, conventional LSCs are designed to trap, rather than extract, spectrally converted light. Here, we propose an effective method for improving outcoupling efficiency, based on protruded and extruded micro-cone arrays patterned on the bottom surface of LSCs. Using Monte-Carlo ray tracing, we estimate a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 37.73% for our Horticulture-LSC (HLSC), corresponding to 53.78% improvement relatively to conventional, planar LSCs. Additionally, structured HLSCs provide diffuse light, beneficial for plant growth. Our micro-patterned surfaces provide a solution to light trapping in LSCs and a foundation for practical application of HLSC.