Photovoltaic Devices based on Biotemplated Bacteriophage Solid-State Nano-Assemblies

The growing interest in inexpensive efficient alternative energy sources has driven research towards new materials for photovoltaic devices. Organic-inorganic hybrid materials such as dye sensitized solar cells (Grätzel cells) are promising candidates to replace the “classic” inorganic silicon solar cell.

My current work is focused on the development of a new generation of bio-inspired solid state photovoltaics. The goal is to combine the simple and versatile technique of layer-by-layer (LbL) polyelectrolyte self-assembly with the bio-templated synthesis of inorganic semiconductors via genetically engineered bacteriophage (Belcher lab).

The proposed photovoltaic systems offer the possibility of a low-cost, low-temperature, lightweight and large area “wet” and “green” synthesis. Additional advantages would be the genetically directed enhanced nanostructural control of the assembly, the largely increased interfacial area of the LbL-assembly improving charge separation and transport as well as good prospects in terms of long-term stability and temperature resistance of the photovoltaic device due to the absence of liquid electrolytes.