3D-printed luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) doped with Perylene Red and Orange dyes are fabricated via stereolithography and evaluated under photosynthetically active radiation. Optically coupled configurations achieve optical efficiencies up to 31% and power conversion efficiencies of 3.6%. The results highlight 3D printing as a rapid and effective platform for optimising indoor photovoltaic LSC–PV systems.
We report the development and characterisation of single-dye luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) fabricated using stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing, doped with Perylene Red and Perylene Orange dyes. A systematic study was carried out by varying the dye concentration in single-dye LSCs and characterising their optical and electrical properties. The performance of the LSCs was studied under photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) illumination, which is relevant for indoor greenhouse applications and aligns with the broader goal of indoor photovoltaics and toward net-zero energy systems. Optical coupling of the LSCs to the solar cells significantly enhanced device performance compared to air-gap configurations. Optically coupled single-dye LSC devices based on Orange and Red achieved power conversion efficiencies of 1.4% and 3.6%, respectively, with corresponding overall optical efficiencies of approximately 15% and 31%. Notably, despite the high reabsorption probability observed in the Red LSC–PV device, photon collection efficiencies reached 50%, demonstrating 3D printing as a rapid and effective research tool for investigating LSC–PV performance.
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