DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY COLLECTION

摘要

A system for collecting electromagnetic energy is provided. The system can include one or more electromagnetic energy collection devices. An individual device comprises a first electrically conductive layer adjacent to a semiconductor layer. The first electrically conductive layer forms a Schottky barrier to charge flow at an interface between the first electrically conductive layer and the semiconductor layer. A second electrically conductive layer is disposed adjacent to the semiconductor layer and away from the first electrically conductive layer. The second electrically conductive layer forms an ohmic contact with the semiconductor layer. Upon exposure of the device to electromagnetic energy, the first electrically conductive layer generates localized surface plasmon resonances that resonantly interact with the second electrically conductive layer, providing near perfect absorption of light. The absorption of light creates hot electrons in the first layer that cross the Schottky barrier to drive an external load.