Using a supercomputer to model different configurations of molecules, researchers were able to determine a hybrid material for testing.  They synthesized this material and measured it for frequency of light absorbed and also for length of time electrons remained free.  It was at this point they discovered how effective this new material is.

The Video Learning Center explains that conventional silicon solar cells operate by reacting with photons in light and create free electrons which flow as current in a circuit.  But these electrons only remain free for a very short time.  The material the OSU researchers created is not only able to capture all visible light, but also to free electrons for 7 million times longer than silicon. As a result more electricity is capable of being produced than ever before.

The Ohio State web site quotes the head of the Department of Chemistry, Malcolm Chisholm, saying “There are other such hybrids out there, but the advantage of our material is that we can cover the entire range of the solar spectrum.”

This new material is still in design stages and suspected to be years away from commercial production.  With more and more attention being given to alternative energies, it is safe to assume that advances in alternative energies will continue, and we could soon begin to see global energy independence.

To read more see http://researchnews.osu.edu/archive/fullspect.htm