GaAs Nanowires Get New Tools for Solar Energy

For years, scientists have been exploring ways to harness low-cost solar energy more efficiently. Anna Fontcuberta and her team at the LSMC Lab are pioneering a new approach to fabricating solar cells. Their research focuses on engineering innovative methods for creating semiconductor structures, with a strong emphasis on nanotechnology. This cutting-edge field is opening up new possibilities for improving the efficiency and affordability of renewable energy solutions.

As semiconductor technology continues to advance, its impact on daily life becomes more profound. From microwave ovens and car electronics to DVD players and computers, semiconductors are integral to modern living. Their evolution not only enhances performance but also paves the way for future innovations that will shape our world in significant ways.

At LSMC, the primary focus is on nanowire geometry—needle-shaped crystalline structures that range from 20 to 100 nanometers in diameter and several micrometers in length. The goal is to enhance the intrinsic properties of these materials, leading to better performance and new fabrication techniques. One of the most promising applications is in solar cells. With the global push toward green energy, nanowire-based solar cells hold great potential for large-scale use and social impact. As Professor Fontcuberta explains, "Our nanowire solar cells are made from gallium arsenide, a material known for its excellent photovoltaic properties."

Gallium arsenide was first used in solar cells on satellites in 1990 and later in power systems for Mars rovers. At LSMC, researchers manipulate arsenic and antimony atoms to create unique three-dimensional structures. Unlike traditional layered configurations, this self-assembled nanowire design offers superior light absorption. While similar to silicon in efficiency, it uses significantly less material. Each vertical nanowire functions as an individual cell, generating electricity independently. Combining small-scale nanowires with advanced 3D geometries reduces the cost per watt dramatically compared to conventional solar panels.

To further boost light absorption, Professor Fontcuberta’s team is refining their approach. For instance, they are integrating gallium arsenide nanowires with other nanostructures, both laterally and vertically. One example involves embedding indium arsenide quantum dots onto the nanowires, which act like catalysts to improve light absorption. These nanowire solar cells represent a third-generation technology, offering compactness, flexibility, and substantial cost reductions. As Fontcuberta notes, "While we've achieved impressive results, commercial deployment of nanowire solar cells is still at least a decade away. However, that's the long-term vision for LSMC."

Poleline Hardware

Reliable Pole Line Hardware Supplierimage194

Pole line hardware refers to a range of products and accessories used in the construction and maintenance of overhead power lines. The poleline hardware includes various components such as pole brackets, crossarms, insulators, guy wires, and clamps that are essential for supporting and securing the electrical cables to utility poles.

These poleline hardware items are designed to withstand the weight and tension of the power lines, ensuring their safe and reliable operation.

Yokelink supply a full line of Poleline Hardware, we offer from the top of the pole to underground. Here are some of the pole line accessories that you are likely to use for your project:

Pole Bands


The pole band for poleline hardware is used as a point or platform for creating secondary racks to the utility pole. The pole band is sometimes referred t as a fastening clamp or simply a pole fastener.


Guy Wire


Also known as a stay wire, the guy wire for poleline hardware is usually used for enhancing the stability of the pole. The poleline guy wire balances the load that is on the electric pole.
Stay wire is usually assembled with other accessories such as pole bracket, guy thimble, and stay rod so that it can attach to the pole and ground. Guy wires for poleline hardware must have high tensional strength to sustain the forces against it.


Anchor Rods


You will have to buy poleline anchor rods whenever your project entails attaching guy wires onto the power line. The anchor rods plays the role of connecting the guy wire to the ground. The anchor rods for poleline hardware should be strong and have adequate tensile strength to support the force of the wire.

thimble anchor rod, ground rod, galvanized anchor rod

Hot dip galvanized Thimble anchor rods, ground rods.

Guy Clamps


The guy clamp for poleline hardware to secure the strands of guy wire. The poleline guy clamp comprises two pieces of carbon steel that are designed to form a parallel groove.The design of the guy clamp ensures that there is minimum damage caused on the strands of the guy wires.


Guy Grip

Also known as a dead-end guy grip, this pole line hardware is usually used on the distributed cables. The guy grip is usually attached to the grip conductor and as well as for the optical fiber.A guy grip has helical which is capable of holding the cable.

Guy Thimble

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The guy thimble also know as cable thimble, this utility pole accessory is usually used in conjunction with guy grip. The guy thimble acts as an interface between the pole band and the guy grip. The guy thimble can also connect to the tension clamp in order to protect the ADSS cable. You can also use the guy thimble to connect the stay rod to the guy wire.


Insulator Clevis

A secondary insulator clevis comprises of a punched steel and a clevis pin. The insulator clevis for poleline hardware is also known as dead-end clevis and is characterized by the D-shaped bracket. The main function of this insulator clevis for powerline accessory is to connect with the pool insulator to the pole. Apart from the overhead line, the insulator clevis is also used on the dead end.


Crossarm Braces & Bracket


This utility poleline hardware is literally the arm of a streetlight pole. The corossarm bracket extends from the pole to provide a platform where you will attach the lighting fixtures. Streetlight arms come in different lengths and designs depending on the needs of the users.

Yokelink Poleline Hardware

Yokelink have over than15 years of experience in stamping, Hot Forging, casting, Welding , and machining. Yokelink is a trusted manufacturer for power line hardware and electrical pole accessories. We supply a full line of Power line hardware, offer from the top of pole to the ground, leave your message, or send us an email. You can also call us to get answers to your questions and place your order.

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