Thin silicon-on-ceramic solar cells

Abstract

AstroPower is developing an advanced photovoltaic module product based on thin silicon-on-ceramic substrates. This paper reviews motivations, technical approaches and electrical results for single device cells that benefit the development of a monolithically interconnected solar array product. A short circuit current density of 25.8 mA/cm/sup 2/ was achieved in a single cell device that demonstrates significant light trapping and excellent back surface passivation. A 9.1% efficient thin film silicon-on-ceramic solar cell was demonstrated using a thermal spray technique. These accomplishments form a basis for the continued research and development towards a new class of thin-silicon solar cell products.