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Analytical model of an n+-p-p+ concentrator solar cell

Concentrator solar cells operate under the conditions of non-uniform illumination and varying spectral content of incident sunlight. To predict the performance of such cells, an analytical model must account for varying carrier photogeneration rates within the cell. Further, the back surface junction fabricated to reduce recombination at the back contact must be included in the analysis.Most models of n+-p-p+ cells assume uniform generation rates within individual layers. In this study, a one-dimensional n+-p-p+ concentrator solar cell is modeled for all levels of illumination of incident sunlight. The photocarrier generation rate is considered as non-uniform in each layer of the cell. An absorption model is incorporated to permit the application for various spectral mixes of incident sunlight. The model also includes the effects of finite surface recombination velocities at the surfaces. Carrier transport equations for the three layers of the cell are developed and solved for the excess carrier concentrations under the assumptions of the model. Junction current density-voltage relationships for the two junctions of the cell are derived. The use of the current density equations in the evaluation of cell performance is discussed. / Department of Physics and Astronomy

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:BSU/oai:cardinalscholar.bsu.edu:handle/183665
Date January 1988
CreatorsShaheen, Momtaz
ContributorsBall State University. Dept. of Physics and Astronomy., Cosby, Ronald M.
Source SetsBall State University
Detected LanguageEnglish
Formatvii, 49, [28] leaves : ill. ; 28 cm.
SourceVirtual Press

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