A new type of fiber solar cells using the effect of total internal reflection. by Kovalevich

The presented concept of a new type of solar cells (batteries) is based on physical laws of optics with the use of the effect of total internal reflection - internal reflection, on the condition that the angle of incidence exceeds a certain critical angle.

In this case, downward electromagnetic wave (the spectrum of solar radiation) is reflected completely inside the optical PV fiber, and the reflection coefficient`s  value exceeds its highest values for polished surfaces.

By total internal reflection the reflection coefficient is not dependent on the wavelength.

In optics, this phenomenon is observed for a wide range of electromagnetic radiation, including the x-ray range.

Here are the best known disadvantages of solar energy:

1. The need for large areas for the placement of solar 2D panels;

2. Reduced productivity of panels with growth of temperature because of features of a structure of photocells;

3. The solar power plant does not work at night and does not work efficiently in the evening twilight, whereas the peak of power consumption falls precisely on the evening hours;

4. Because of its low efficiency, which at best reaches 20 percent, solar panels get very hot.

The remaining 80 percent of the energy of sunlight heats the solar cells to a temperature of about 55 ° C.

With an increase in the temperature of the photovoltaic cell by 1 °, its efficiency drops by 0.5%.

This dependence is not linear and an increase in the element temperature by 10 ° leads to a nearly twofold decrease in efficiency.

5. Reduction of the efficiency of solar cells (PV modules) caused by dust, atmospheric precipitation.

Reducing the impact of the above disadvantages of modern solar cells, possible using the concept of fiber PV elements:

1. maximum absorption of the spectrum of solar radiation by the method of total internal reflection, in a tubular optical fiber in 3D coordinates;

2. Applying the lens effect using an external transparent fiber sheath to start the energy generation process inside the PV layer, in low light conditions (cloudiness, darkening of the working PV surface);

3. maximum absorption of electromagnetic radiation by PV layer of optical fiber, by converting a wide solar radiation spectrum into monochrome (quantum-mechanical stimulated emission induction, using optical mirror resonators in fiber);

4. Using of the internal axial channel of the tubular fiber for cooling the PV layer and, as a result, increase the efficiency;

5. Applying of effective ultrasonic cleaning of the PV fiber surface (standard 2D solar modules are not cleaned by ultrasonic vibrations in conditions of sandstorms in the desert).

6. The combination of two technologies - solar and wind energy - enhance the effectiveness of this concept - the conversion of wind energy from rocking the fiber, and solar energy.

7. Reduction of the necessary space for the location of solar power plants in comparison with conventional flat solar panels (saving of land resources, saving of the water surface area using the technology of floating helio power plants)

8. The PV fibers can be used in the space industry for compact placement in a limited transport area and for the ability to quickly set in the working position the power supply system.