Solar panels, otherwise known as solar cells or photovoltaic cells, are used to absorb these waves. Solar cells are rated by their energy conversion efficicieny and it’s stability (Janssen, 2006). However, a recent study done by Rauindran shows that that solar cells are normally up to only 15% efficient (2011). This raises the question why solar energy, one of the most available energy we have, so difficult to obtain.Solar cells consist of materials called semiconductors, which primarily absorb the light from the sun in the form of a photon (Aldous, Toothman, 2011).

     Quantum dots are miniscule semi-conducting crystals that have MEG, or multiple exciton generation. This means that they are able to excite multiple electrons per photon of light (Beard, 2012). Quantum dots also have a tunable bandgap, which means they can change the wavelengths of light they absorb. Standford University found that quantum dots on solar cells can make the solar cell be up to 31% efficient. Cadmium, one of the key parts in quantum dots, cause detrimental effects to the environment. Current technology is being applied to change quantum dots to be as effective without the use of cadmium.New studies (Benseeba, 2012). 

     This project focuses on finding a substitution for cadmium in quantum dots that is both cost-effective and has less harmful effects on the environment. Last year's research identified CuInS2 quantum dots to double the power output the average solar panel recieves. This year is an in-depth analysis of the CuInS2 quantum dot structure, both in application and theory. The efficiency of the solar panels with different hours of heat sysnthesis of CuInS2 were measured, in addition to TiO2, another common nanoparticle that is being added to the trials. A TEM and UV-Vis Spectrometer were also used to determine the relation between the dot structure of the nanoparticles and the efficiency of the solar panel.