Solar Cell Post-Treatment for Stable Amorphous Semiconductor Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar cell manufacturing methods face challenges in maximizing efficiency and thermal stability due to deterioration of amorphous semiconductor layers, particularly when high-temperature processes are used.
Innovation Solution
A method of manufacturing a solar cell that includes forming a photoelectric converter with amorphous semiconductor layers and electrodes, followed by a post-treatment process at a temperature range of 15°C to 300°C, combining light and heat to enhance thermal stability and efficiency by reducing defects and improving conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-temperature heat treatment process is used to improve electrode conductivity, then electrode conductivity is improved, but amorphous semiconductor layer deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing the light irradiation post-treatment before the high-temperature heat treatment step. This pre-treatment introduces hydrogen into the amorphous semiconductor layer and improves its crystallinity in advance, creating a more stable structure that can withstand subsequent high-temperature processing without deteriorating. The electrode is then formed and subjected to high-temperature heat treatment, achieving good conductivity without damaging the semiconductor layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by combining light irradiation and heat treatment in a continuous post-treatment process. The light irradiation continuously supplies energy to generate hydrogen and improve crystallinity, while the heat treatment continuously enhances electrode conductivity. This continuous dual-action process ensures both the semiconductor layer stability and electrode conductivity are improved simultaneously without interruption.
2Stability of the object's composition
If low-temperature process is used to prevent amorphous semiconductor layer deterioration, then amorphous semiconductor layer stability is improved, but electrode conductivity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses light irradiation as an intermediary to bridge the gap between low-temperature semiconductor layer stability requirements and high-temperature electrode conductivity requirements. The light irradiation acts as a mediator that introduces hydrogen into the amorphous semiconductor layer at low temperatures, improving its crystallinity and stability. This intermediary treatment enables the subsequent high-temperature heat treatment to achieve good electrode conductivity without causing semiconductor layer deterioration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing light irradiation to change the physical and chemical parameters of the amorphous semiconductor layer. The light energy changes the hydrogen distribution, crystallinity, and structural parameters of the semiconductor layer, transforming it from a state vulnerable to high-temperature damage to a stable state that can withstand high-temperature heat treatment while maintaining good electrode conductivity.
3Productivity
If post-treatment temperature is increased to improve efficiency, then efficiency is improved, but amorphous semiconductor layer deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing light irradiation treatment before high-temperature heat treatment. This pre-treatment introduces hydrogen into the amorphous semiconductor layer and improves its crystallinity, creating a stable structure that can withstand subsequent high-temperature processing. As a result, the solar cell achieves high efficiency through the high-temperature heat treatment without the amorphous semiconductor layer deteriorating.
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 method prevents deterioration of amorphous semiconductor layers and enhances conductivity, ensuring thermal stability up to 300°C, thereby improving the overall efficiency and performance of the solar cell.
Implementation Method 1
performing a post-treatment by providing light to the photoelectric converter and the electrode
Implementation Method 2
providing light to the photoelectric converter and the electrode, wherein in the performing of the post-treatment, a processing temperature is within a range from 15°C to 300°C
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a manufacturing method of a solar cell, including forming a photoelectric converter including an amorphous semiconductor layer, forming an electrode connected to the photoelectric converter, and performing a post-treatment by providing light to the photoelectric converter and the electrode.