Nanoparticle Hybrids of Organic and Inorganic Materials - New Technology

Harnessing the power the sun may hinge on harnessing the potential of nanoparticle semiconductors the size of one 10,000th the thickness of a single human hair.

Researchers at Rutgers-Newark and Johns Hopkins are developing new nanoparticle structures that are hybrids of both organic and inorganic materials. These are showing promise as prototype solar-energy conversion cells that are much more effective at capturing light and transforming it into usable electrical energy than prior versions of solar cells.

The key is in modifying the hybrid nanoparticles and nanowires to alter the way electrons flow in the wires that link nanostructures macrosize electronic devices.

Posted 14^th October 2003