Curly nanowires catch more light to power nanoscal
Post# of 22456
Nanowires are a relatively new technology and their full potential is still being explored. When the tiny wires are made from a semiconductor like silicon, light striking the wire will dislodge electrons from the crystal lattice, leaving positively charged "holes" behind. Both the electrons and the holes move through the material to generate electricity. The more light the wire absorbs; the more electricity it generates. A device that converts light into electricity can function as either a solar cell or a photosensor.
...a European researcher team built a nanowire solar cell with almost 14 percent efficiency from the compounds of indium and phosphorus
http://www.nanowerk.com/nanotechnology-news/newsid=41289.php