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A theoretical analysis of the current-voltage characteristics of solar cellsVarious mechanisms which limit the conversion efficiency of silicon solar cells were studied. The effects of changes in solar cell geometry such as layer thickness on performance were examined. The effects of various antireflecting layers were also examined. It was found that any single film antireflecting layer results in a significant surface loss of photons. The use of surface texturing techniques or low loss antireflecting layers can enhance by several percentage points the conversion efficiency of silicon cells. The basic differences between n(+)-p-p(+) and p(+)-n-n(+) cells are treated. A significant part of the study was devoted to the importance of surface region lifetime and heavy doping effects on efficiency. Heavy doping bandgap reduction effects are enhanced by low surface layer lifetimes, and conversely, the reduction in solar cell efficiency due to low surface layer lifetime is further enhanced by heavy doping effects. A series of computer studies is reported which seeks to determine the best cell structure and doping levels for maximum efficiency.
Document ID
19760025560
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Contractor Report (CR)
Authors
Dunbar, P. M. (North Carolina State Univ. Raleigh, NC, United States)
Hauser, J. R. (North Carolina State Univ. Raleigh, NC, United States)
Date Acquired
September 3, 2013
Publication Date
August 1, 1976
Subject Category
Energy Production And Conversion
Report/Patent Number
NASA-CR-148827
Accession Number
76N32648
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGR-34-002-195
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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