This introduction to solar cells covers the basics of PN junctions,
optical absorption, and IV characteristics. Performance metrics such
as efficiency, short-circuit current, fill factor, and open-circuit
voltage are discussed. Key technology options and economic considers
are briefly introduced.
Outline:
- Introduction
- PN junction fundamentals (dark)
- Model solar cell: dark IV
- Optical absorption / light-generated current
- Model solar cell: illuminated
- Discussion
- Summary
Dionisis Berdebes, Jim Moore, and Xufeng Wang played key roles in putting together this tutorial.
“
Electronics from the Bottom Up” is an educational initiative designed to bring a new perspective to the field of nano device engineering. It is co-sponsored by the
Intel Foundation and the
Network for Computational Nanotechnology.
Researchers should cite this work as follows: