# Synthesis and Characterization of Sm3+/Yb3+ Codoped Oxychloride Tellurite Glasses for Solar Cell Enhancement via Energy Conversion

## TL;DR

Researchers created new glasses with Sm3+/Yb3+ ions that could improve solar cell efficiency by converting light more effectively.

## Contribution

The study introduces Sm3+/Yb3+ codoped oxychloride tellurite glasses with high energy transfer efficiency for solar cell enhancement.

## Key findings

- Optical spectroscopy confirmed successful incorporation of Sm3+ and Yb3+ ions into the glass matrix.
- A 76% energy transfer efficiency was achieved with 3 mol % YbCl3, indicating strong Sm3+/Yb3+ interaction.
- The glasses show visible-to-near-infrared spectral conversion, suitable for improving silicon solar cell performance.

## Abstract

This study presents the synthesis and characterization
of novel
oxychloride tellurite glasses codoped with Sm3+/Yb3+. These materials were investigated for their potential applications
as spectral converters to enhance the efficiency of silica-based solar
cells. Optical spectroscopy revealed the successful incorporation
of both rare-earth ions in the glass matrix. It was observed that
with the increase of Yb3+ ion concentration, the lifetime
of the 4G5/2 state of Sm3+ ions decreased
considerably, indicating an efficient energy transfer mechanism between
the Sm3+/Yb3+ pair. A notable energy transfer
efficiency of 76% was achieved for the sample containing 3 mol % of
YbCl3. The observed visible-to-near-infrared spectral conversion
properties make these glasses promising candidates for improving the
performance of silicon solar cells by better matching the solar spectrum
to the optimal response range of a photovoltaic device.