Research Projects

Photonics and optoelectronics are key technologies for the digitalization. The design of corresponding semiconductor devices as well as the modeling of epitaxial processes can still benefit significantly from artificial intelligence (AI) methods in the context of Industry 4.0. Ubiquitous digitization and automation, as well as the Internet of Things, require constant energy and data streams. The emerging technology of photonic power transmission, also known as power-by-light enables power and data transmission to be combined in a single optical link. By using optical telecommunication wavelengths around 1.5 µm, the applications of such power-by-light systems can be extended to remote locations, enabling unlimited remote power supply. AI-assisted approaches to photonic power converter (PPC) design and fabrication are critical for further cross-industry application of photonic power and data transmission. | Duration: 04/2021 - 03/2024

In our department “III-V - Epitaxy and Solar Cells” photovoltaic converters for monochromatic light have been developed for many years. Beside cell development and optimization, we have experience in packaging and system integration. Within the ASHLEY project we work on the optimization and system integration of laser power converters for a power-by-light module in aircrafts. | Duration: 10/2013 - 09/2017

This ICON collaboration plan aims at largely uncharted capabilities of free-space optical technologies which are an increasingly important pillar within a green digital revolution for our future sustainable and connected society. It will unlock the potential of energy-efficient ultra-high-speed wireless devices and fifth generation (5G) and sixth generation (6G) wireless optical communication systems. The University of Strathclyde’s LiFi Research and Development Centre (LRDC) and the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) partner to complement optical wireless communications with photonic power harvesting to facilitate green connectivity. | Duration: 03/2023 - 02/2026

High-temperature manufacturing industries are energy-intensive, operating furnaces at over 1000 °C continuously, leading to substantial waste heat. In glass production, up to 60% of energy is wasted, and in cement production, 44% is lost as waste heat. The waste heat recovery market, currently valued at €57 billion and growing at 9% annually, is projected to reach €108 billion by 2028. High-temperature industries (>1000 °C) account for only 3% of this market (€3.2 billion). Despite their high operating temperatures, downstream processes below 800 °C offer significant waste heat recovery potential. Waste heat can be recovered from cooling grates, furnace walls, and flue gases. However, the lack of technology capable of handling high temperatures in volatile environments and the complexity and cost of conventional systems like steam turbines hinder heat recovery adoption. | Duration: 05/2024 - 04/2027

Project in the Business Area Photovoltaics, Topic: III-V and Concentrator Photovoltaics, Field of Work: Power-by-Light, Duration: 04/2018 - 03/2021

Project in the Business Area Photovoltaics; Topics: Emerging Photovoltaic Technologies and Silicon Photovoltaics; Field of Work: Photon Management; Duration: April 2015 - March 2018

Project in the Business Area Photovoltaics; Topic: III-V and Concentrator Photovoltaics; Field of Work: Power-By-Light; Duration: July 2012 - October 2015