AlGaN-based junctions for alphavoltaic energy conversion

Vijay Parameshwaran; LeighAnn Larkin; Mihee Ji; John Demaree; Michael Wraback; Marc Litz

doi:10.1117/12.3014454

10 June 2024 AlGaN-based junctions for alphavoltaic energy conversion

Vijay Parameshwaran, LeighAnn Larkin, Mihee Ji, John Demaree, Michael Wraback, Marc Litz

Proceedings Volume PC13027, Energy Harvesting and Storage: Materials, Devices, and Applications XIV; PC1302702 (2024) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3014454
Event: SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing, 2024, National Harbor, Maryland, United States

Abstract

Alphavoltaic energy conversion, in which an alpha particle flux from radioisotope sources such as Am-241 is converted into electrical power through a semiconductor junction, offers the promise of a higher power output as compared to the more established betavoltaic systems. Semiconductors coupled to alpha particle irradiation, however, are susceptible to degradation from point defect damage and consequently suffer from reduced power output and operational lifetime. The ternary AlGaN alloy system, due to its high bandgap energy, density, and melting point, is a promising semiconductor system for stable alphavoltaic energy conversion. In this work, AlGaN is explored as a materials basis through both band modeling and combined MBE and MOCVD materials growth of GaN/AlGaN heterojunctions incorporating graded and doped layers. These combined studies and designs work towards a goal of achieving a stable high-power output alphavoltaic device based on the AlGaN materials system.

Conference Presentation

Citation Download Citation

Vijay Parameshwaran, LeighAnn Larkin, Mihee Ji, John Demaree, Michael Wraback, and Marc Litz "AlGaN-based junctions for alphavoltaic energy conversion", Proc. SPIE PC13027, Energy Harvesting and Storage: Materials, Devices, and Applications XIV, PC1302702 (10 June 2024); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3014454

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available