Bulk photovoltaic effect in GaNGeC quaternary compound semiconductors. Issue 28 (6th July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lou, Ping; Lee, Jin Yong
• Is Part Of: Physical chemistry chemical physics. Volume 24:Issue 28(2022)
• Page Start: 17098
• Page End: 17104
• Publication Date: 2022-07-06
• Subjects: Chemistry, Physical and theoretical -- Periodicals; 541.3
• DOI: 10.1039/d1cp05775h
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1463-9076

Abstract

Abstract : Compared to the p–n junction photovoltaic effect, the bulk photovoltaic effect is a potential way to overcome the external limitations of solar energy conversion. Abstract : Compared to the p–n junction photovoltaic effect, the bulk photovoltaic effect is a potential way to overcome the external limitations of solar energy conversion. It is challenging to find new materials with a bulk photovoltaic effect. In this article, using first-principles calculations and the maximum local Wannier function, we investigated the bulk photovoltaic effect in GaNGeC quaternary compound semiconductors with six different crystal structures (S-1, S-2, S-3, S-4, S-5, and S-6 for short). These semiconductors showed a large effective three-dimensional shift current conductivity, where the maximum absolute value of the shift current conductivity ranges from 10 μA V −2 to 425 μA V −2, indicating that they are promising candidates for photoelectric conversion applications. Furthermore, the electron localization function, difference charge density, and atomic configurations as well as Löwdin population analysis revealed that dimerization of the GaN layer and the GeC layer in S-5 and S-6 induces delocalization of electrons. This delocalization of electrons enhances their shift current conductivities, which provides valuable insight for further design and development of new photovoltaic materials.