Optical and photonic performance of one-step synthesized boron carbon oxynitride-phosphor as promising luminescent solar concentrator

Luminescent Solar Concentrators (LSCs) represent a promising technology for the low-cost harvesting and utilization of solar energy, even under diffuse light conditions. Such devices consist of a transparent matrix in which fluorescent molecules are embedded and function as absorbers of solar radiation. The operating principle of a LSC is based on the absorption of incident sunlight and convert it into different wavelengths. Then, the emitted radiation is directed by total internal reflection towards the edges of the device, where it is collected by photovoltaic cells and finally obtains electrical energy. In this work, we propose the use of BCNO (Boron Carbon Oxynitride) as phosphor material that is possibly can be applied in LSC configuration. BCNO is an environmentally friendly material with low synthesis cost and excellent optical properties. Specifically, we propose a straightforward hydrothermal process to synthesize BCNO phosphor that enhances its optical properties absorbing ultraviolet radiation and re-emitting in the blue region (450–500 nm) of the visible light. Boric acid, urea and citric acid, were incorporated into an autoclave for the BCNO synthesis while a siloxane matrix of N-[3-(Trimethoxysilyl) propyl] ethylenediamine (AEAPTMS) was used for homogeneous film depositions of BCNO on glass substrates. The performance of the BCNO as LSC was evaluated as a photonic device, following the latest standardized measurement protocols for LSC. Finally, we propose the optimal deposition of the material, of two successive layers, that gives an external optical efficiency of 2.2 %. • Hydrothermally synthesized BCNO for thin coatings on glass in the presence of a siloxane matrix. • BCNO films as Luminescent solar concentrators for solar light utilization. • Improved light concentration factor of 22 % and external optical performance of 2.2 % by BCNO films.