With its patented InGaP-Plus (Indium Gallium Phosphide) technology, Anadigics may have leapfrogged over its AlGaAs (Aluminum Gallium Arsenide) competitors by enabling some 20% to 25% longer cell phone battery life.

FORBES: Anadigics Powers Up

Currently, they are building the device using a gallium-phosphide semiconductor, and while the existing rendition still requires "additional energy" outside of sheer sunlight for the process to work, they're hoping that the American Chemical Society will warm up to the idea and give 'em a helping hand.

ENGADGET: San Diegans convert carbon dioxide to fuel via solar energy

Many optical components are typically constructed using materials such as gallium arsenide and indium phosphide.

WSJ: IBM Claims Breakthrough in Laser-Based Chips

Sol Voltaics uses data from its indium phosphide nanowire research to project that its gallium arsenide nanowires will deliver a 25% efficiency gain.

FORBES: A Swedish Solar Startup's Nanowires Promise To Deliver A Big Energy Boost