Light trapping and near-unity solar absorption in a three-dimensional photonic-crystal

Abstract

We report what is to our knowledge the first observation of the effect of parallel-to-interface-refraction (PIR) in a three-dimensional, simple-cubic photonic-crystal. PIR is an acutely negative refraction of light inside a photonic-crystal, leading to light-bending by nearly 90 deg over broad wavelengths (.). The consequence is a longer path length of light in the medium and an improved light absorption beyond the Lambertian limit. As an illustration of the effect, we show near-unity total absorption (>= 98%) in lambda 520-620 nm and an average absorption of similar to 94% over lambda = 400-700 nm for our alpha-Si: H photonic-crystal sample of an equivalent bulk thickness of (t) over tilde = 450 nm. Furthermore, we have achieved an ultra-wide angular acceptance of light over theta = 0 degrees-80 degrees. This demonstration opens up a new door for light trapping and near-unity solar absorption over broad.s and wide angles. (C) 2013 Optical Society of America