Optimization of Titanium Nitride and Zirconium Nitride Nanorods for Enhanced Solar Absorption in Plasmonic Photovoltaic Applications

Photovoltaics (PV) has emerged as a key technology for directly converting solar energy into electricity, addressing the world's growing energy demands. Thin-film solar cells, despite their potential, face challenges in light absorption due to their limited thickness. Surface Plasmon (SP)mediated nanosystems, particularly nanorods, have shown significant promise in enhancing light absorption and trapping. This study focuses on the plasmonic properties of Titanium Nitride (TiN) and Zirconium Nitride (ZrN) nanorods as costeffective and efficient alternatives to noble metal gold (Au). TiN and ZrN nanorods exhibit strong plasmonic responses across the UV-IR spectrum, significant overlap with solar spectra, and superior properties such as low cost, thermal stability, and fabrication compatibility. The role of geometrical parameters including rod length, aspect ratio, and embedding medium is systematically analyzed for their impact on solar absorption. A comparative analysis with Au nanorods highlights the potential of TiN and ZrN as viable materials for photovoltaic applications. Numerically optimized nanorod designs are presented, showcasing their ability to enhance solar absorption. This study provides critical insights into the use of transition metal nitride nanorods for next-generation solar cells.