Two-step photocarrier generation in InAs/GaAs quantum dot superlattice intermediate band solar cell

We studied the two-step photon absorption (TSPA) process in InAs/GaAs quantum-dot superlattice (QDSL) solar cells. The photoluminescence (PL) and its excitation spectrum (PLE) showed the contribution of the higher excited states (ESs) forming the miniband of the QDSLs above the inhomogeneously distributed ground states (GSs). TSPA of sub- bandgap photons efficiently occurs when electrons are pumped from the valence band (VB) to the higher ESs. When the higher ESs were resonantly excited, the superlinear excitation power dependence of the PL intensity appeared. Moreover, time-resolved PL showed that the electron lifetime is extended. These results demonstrate that the excited electron and hole separately relax into QDSLs, and thereby, enhancing the second sub-bandgap absorption.