An electrooptical model for the design of semiconductor solar cells

Photovoltaic cells for use in solar energy systems are studied, with the emphasis on increasing cell efficiency in energy conversion. The electrical properties of pn junctions and Schottky barrier diodes are reviewed, and a numerical technique for simulating the performance of solar energy systems using these components is formulated. The quality, stability and cost of thin silicon layers for solar cell applications are discussed; experiments involving silicon deposition onto substrates of various resistivity are conducted, with the aim of studying photocurrent as a function of doping. The absorption and deposition characteristics of other films, such as CdTe layers, are also assessed. It is suggested that a combination of optical concentrators and photovoltaic cells may yield viable energy conversion systems.