Solar Cell Structure With Transparent Interlayer for Interface Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar cells experience degradation over time due to changes in the microscopic structure of the interface between n-type and p-type semiconductor layers, leading to inefficiencies and reduced performance.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a transparent conductive layer between the semiconductor layers to physically separate them, maintaining a homogeneous interface and reducing degradation, while allowing for higher optical transparency and conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a direct interface between n-type and p-type semiconductor layers is used, then device complexity is reduced, but degradation occurs due to microscopic peaks and valleys forming at the interface
Solution Approach 1:
A transparent conductive layer is introduced as an intermediary between the n-type and p-type semiconductor layers. This intermediate layer prevents direct contact between the semiconductor layers, eliminating the formation of microscopic peaks and valleys at the interface while maintaining electrical conductivity and optical transparency.
2Manufacturing precision
If the semiconductor layers are kept in direct contact, then manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but power conversion efficiency decreases due to interface degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent conductive layer serves as a mediator that ensures uniform contact between semiconductor layers while maintaining high power conversion efficiency. The layer's uniform thickness and homogeneous composition prevent the formation of degradation-prone interface features.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the physical and chemical parameters of the interface by introducing a transparent conductive layer with specific electrical conductivity and optical transparency properties. This changes the interface characteristics to prevent degradation while maintaining efficiency.
3Device complexity
If no transparent conductive layer is used, then device complexity is lower, but long-term performance degrades due to interface irregularities
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent conductive layer acts as a protective intermediary that stabilizes the interface between semiconductor layers throughout the service life of the device. This intermediate structure prevents the formation of microscopic peaks and valleys that would otherwise lead to degradation over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent conductive layer provides beforehand cushioning by preventing the formation of degradation-prone interface features before they can occur. The layer acts as a buffer that maintains interface uniformity throughout the device's operational life.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the transparent conductive layer is made thicker to improve separation, then interface homogeneity improves, but optical transparency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the parameters of the transparent conductive layer, specifically its thickness and material composition, to achieve the right balance between interface homogeneity and optical transparency. The layer thickness is controlled to be sufficient for separation but thin enough to maintain transparency.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent conductive layer may be composed of composite materials that provide both electrical conductivity and optical transparency while maintaining interface homogeneity. The composite structure allows optimization of multiple properties simultaneously.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach increases the power conversion efficiency and extends the lifespan of solar cells by minimizing degradation, achieving higher efficiency and longer-term performance compared to traditional solar cells.
Implementation Method 1
a transparent conductive layer is positioned between the first semiconductor layer and second semiconductor layer
Implementation Method 2
convert solar energy to electrical energy via the photovoltaic effect
Implementation Method 3
The solar cell may be transparent and/or inorganic
Data Source
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AI summary
In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a solar cell structure comprising: a first semiconductor layer (2) of a first dopant type in electrical communication with a first electrode (1); a second semiconductor layer (3) of a second dopant type in electrical communication with a second electrode (4); characterized in that between the first semiconductor layer (2) and second semiconductor layer (3) a transparent conductive layer (5) is positioned. Physically separating the semiconductor layers (2, 3) with a transparent conductive layer (5) has been found to decrease degradation and increase efficiency of the solar cell structure.