28 Mar 2013

Rectennas and solar energy

Recently I read about some interesting work on Rectennas, which are combined antennas and rectifiers used to detect microwaves and optical frequencies. The work suggested that very high efficiencies may be possible at optical frequencies (around 70%, possibly more) using nanotechnology leading to much more efficient power conversion of solar energy. The correct term for these would be Nantennas. At my new house (move coming up in a few months) I will be considering the installation of solar photo-voltaic panels, but wonder if I should wait a few years in case technical breakthroughs with Nantennas could revolutionise these?

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