Solar Cell Negative Charge Layer Electron Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Silicon solar cells have a photovoltaic conversion efficiency of 25% or less, necessitating the development of improved solar cells that can enhance efficiency and reliability while utilizing general fabrication equipment.
Innovation Solution
A solar cell design incorporating a first semiconductor layer, a second semiconductor layer, an anti-reflection layer, and a negative charge layer with chalcogen elements, where the negative charge layer is disposed between the anti-reflection layer and the second semiconductor layer, and is formed through thermal or plasma treatment using chalcogen element sources, enhancing electron movement and reducing interface defects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional silicon solar cell structure is used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the photovoltaic conversion efficiency is 25% or less
Solution Approach 1:
The solar cell is divided into multiple functional layers including a first semiconductor layer, a second semiconductor layer, an anti-reflection layer, and a negative charge layer. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally, thereby improving overall photovoltaic conversion efficiency while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
A negative charge layer is introduced as an intermediary layer between the anti-reflection layer and the second semiconductor layer. This intermediate layer facilitates improved electron transfer and reduces interface defects, thereby enhancing photovoltaic conversion efficiency without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.
2Productivity
If the anti-reflection layer is made thicker to reduce reflection, then light absorption improves, but electron transfer becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The negative charge layer serves as a mediator between the anti-reflection layer and the semiconductor layer, enabling electrons to transfer more easily across the interface even when the anti-reflection layer is relatively thick. This resolves the contradiction by providing a dedicated pathway for electron transport that is not hindered by the thickness of the anti-reflection layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The negative charge layer is specifically positioned at the interface region where electron transfer occurs, providing localized improvement in electron transport properties without affecting the overall thickness or light absorption characteristics of the anti-reflection layer. This localized intervention allows thick anti-reflection layers to maintain both their light absorption advantage and electron transfer capability.
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
The design improves photovoltaic conversion efficiency and reliability by facilitating easier electron transfer and reducing interface defects, resulting in a high-efficient and high-reliable solar cell.
Implementation Method 1
facilitating easier electron transfer
Implementation Method 2
formed through thermal or plasma treatment using chalcogen element sources
Implementation Method 3
formed through thermal or plasma treatment using chalcogen element sources
Data Source
AI summary
A solar cell is provided. The solar cell includes a first semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type, a second semiconductor layer of a second conductivity type disposed on the first semiconductor layer, an anti-reflection layer on the second semiconductor layer, and a negative charge layer between the anti-reflection layer and the second semiconductor layer.