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3-D optical modeling of single and multi-junction thin-film silicon solar cells on gratings

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  17 May 2012

O. Isabella
Affiliation:
Delft University of Technology – PVMD/DIMES, P.O. Box 5053, 2628 CD Delft, Netherlands
S. Solntsev
Affiliation:
Delft University of Technology – PVMD/DIMES, P.O. Box 5053, 2628 CD Delft, Netherlands
D. Caratelli
Affiliation:
Delft University of Technology – IRCTR, P.O. Box 5031, 2600 GA Delft, Netherlands
M. Zeman
Affiliation:
Delft University of Technology – PVMD/DIMES, P.O. Box 5053, 2628 CD Delft, Netherlands
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Abstract

Three-dimensional (3-D) optical modeling based on Finite Element Method of single, double, and triple junction thin-film silicon solar cells is presented. The combination of front periodic gratings with optimal geometrical parameters and rear ZnO/Ag reflector constitutes an efficient light trapping scheme for solar cells in superstrate (pin) configuration. The application of optimized trapezoidal 1-D and 2-D gratings resulted in 25.5% (1-D case) and 32.5% (2-D case) increase in photo-current density with respect to the flat solar cell. The application of inverted pyramidal 2-D gratings in double and triple junction silicon solar cells with very thin absorber layers resulted in a photo-current density > 11 mA/cm2 and > 9 mA/cm2, respectively.

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Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2012

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References

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