Compound semiconductors for energy applications and environmental sustainability : symposium held April 14-16, 2009, San Francisco, California, U.S.A.

Compound semiconductors have long been an integral part of everyday life. Recent progress on their potential as emitters, sensing devices in biological and chemical environments, and high-efficiency power devices demonstrates their impact on energy and environment. Compound-semiconductor-based photovoltaic systems are emerging as an economical means of generating renewable energy through the use of concentrator technologies. However, while solid-state lighting devices have shown energy-saving and environmental benefits, much still needs to be done to realize their full potential. This book contains reports from internationally known experts on the state of compound-semiconductor-based devices with application in environmental conservation and energy saving challenges. Topics include: compound semiconductors for PV applications; compound semiconductors for lighting; compound semiconductors for lighting, power and sensing; compound semiconductors for energy; compound semiconductors for sensing; and materials growth and characterization. An appendix, with select papers from Symposium S, Materials in Photocatalysis and Photochemistry for Environmental Applications and H2 Generation, is also included in the book.