Optimization of 1D photonic crystals to minimize the reflectance of silicon solar cells

► We analyze the behavior of many photonic crystals (PC) for photovoltaic applications. ► Computer simulations are used to choose the optimum structure. ► We fabricate the structures by using laser interference lithography and reactive ion etching. ► We obtain a very good agreement between the theoretical and the experimental results. ► We find a pattern based on triangular lines which reduces the reflectance of silicon from values over 30% to values very close to 10% in the wavelength range between 500 and 900 nm.