This study addresses the prevailing dominance of crystalline solar cells, comprising 90% of the photovoltaic market share. In response to cost considerations, there is a growing trend towards thinner silicon solar cells. However, the associated reduction in energy conversion efficiency, particularly in the 900-1170 nm wavelength range, necessitates innovative approaches.
The research focuses on enhancing light absorption in thin silicon solar cells through the integration of photonic nanostructures on the front surface. Departing from conventional micron-scale random pyramids, this work employs nanoimprint lithography (NIL) and two etching methods (reactive-ion and wet chemical) to fabricate "bowl" and inverted pyramid profiles. NIL demonstrates superior nanopattern uniformity, and both structures exhibit enhanced light absorption in longer wavelengths compared to random pyramids.
The electrical properties of nanotextured substrates are meticulously investigated due to their potential impact on solar cell performance. Integration of nanostructures into 40-μm-thin crystalline silicon substrates involve protective dielectric layer stacks to ensure survival during wet chemical etching steps. The study underscores the intertwined influence of front and rear-side surface textures on light absorption.
While the integration of nanostructures enhances light absorption in 40-μm-thin silicon solar cells, the efforts are directed towards improving electrical performance. This research contributes to the continual optimization of thin silicon solar cells in the photovoltaic industry.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
PERSONAL Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.