Source: David Shankbone/wikimedia

Researchers in Finland have reportedly developed a next-generation solar panel utilizing silver nano particle antennas to trap incoming solar light.  The silver nano-antennas reportedly drastically increase photovoltaic cell efficiency (the percentage of incoming solar light converted into electrical energy- approximately only 20% in current solar panels), and new fabrication techniques allow printing the silver nano-antenna at a low cost. 

Jeffery Christian and the CPM Group’s dire predictions notwithstanding, it appears silver’s industrial demand won’t be decreasing anytime soon.

SDBullion’s new 2013 Silver Buffalo round is available now as low as .99 over spot!

From ABC.net.au:

Light-trapping, silver nano-antennas could dramatically improve the performance of solar panels by catching more light, according to a new study.

A team of physicists, including Professor Constantin Simovski from Finland’s Aalto University, has developed theoretical designs that could increase photovoltaic cell efficiency in a commercially viable way.

It proposes incorporating chessboard-patterned arrays of tiny silver nano-antennas into solar panels.

This would trap more incoming light, allowing it to be preferentially re-radiated through the photovoltaic slab, improving efficiency.

Continue reading at:  http://www.silverdoctors.com/next-generation-solar-panels-power-via...