Description A new type of solar cell using carbon nanotubes and silicon could greatly lower the cost of commercial solar panels. However, the carbon nanotubes must be doped with other compounds that donate charge and increase the conductivity of the nanotubes, such as gold chloride. Once doped, carbon nanotube-silicon solar cells exhibit efficiencies close to commercial panels at a fraction of the cost. Shastry and his colleagues are testing various dopants to see which work the best. In this image, gold chloride is layered on carbon nanotubes layered on silicon to create a conductive film. The crystalline structure in the upper right-hand corner formed when the gold chloride didnt set correctly and is not an ideal outcome. Technique: Optical microscopy, no false coloring
Science In Society Northwestern University's Recent Work
About the artist
Science In Society Northwestern University Member Since November 2013 Artist Statement Science in Society is a Northwestern University research center dedicated to science outreach and public engagement.
These images stem from cutting-edge research on campus, winning our annual Scientific Images Contest which goes on display in galleries across Chicago.
Through partnerships with schools and community groups, we train Northwestern researchers to share their expertise and creativity in a community centered way. Sales from these images goes to support our education and outreach activities, connecting researchers to the wider community.