Laser-zone growth in a Ribbon-to-Ribbon (RTR) process, silicon sheet growth development for the large area silicon sheet task of the Low Cost Silicon Solar Array Project. Annual report
The Ribbon-to-Ribbon (RTR) approach to silicon ribbon growth is investigated. An existing RTR apparatus is to be upgraded to its full capabilities and operated routinely to investigate and optimize the effects of various growth parameters on growth results. A new RTR apparatus is to be constructed to incorporate increased capabilities and improvements over the first apparatus and to be capable of continuous growth. Material analyses and solar cell fabrication process optimization are to be performed with a goal of 12% cell efficiency. Major progress towards completion of the new laser lab has been made with full operation expected in October. RTR No. 1 has been used for routine growth of samples for analysis and fabrication into solar cells. One lot of solar cells has been completely evaluated: ribbon solar cell efficiencies averaged 9.23% with a highest efficiency of 11.7%. Spherical reflectors have demonstrated significant improvements in laser-silicon coupling efficiencies. Numerous material analyses have been performed including SPV and OCPV diffusion length measurements, crystal morphology studies, modulus-of-rupture measurements, and annealing/gettering studies. An initial economic analysis has been performed indicating that RTR add-on costs of $.10/watt might be expected in the early 1980's. Engineering drawings of the improved transport stage and of the components for the RTR apparatus are included in one of the appendices.
- Research Organization:
- Motorola, Inc., Phoenix, Ariz. (USA). Semiconductor Group
- DOE Contract Number:
- NAS-7-100-954376
- OSTI ID:
- 5064312
- Report Number(s):
- ERDA/JPL/954376-77/4
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Laser-zone growth in a Ribbon-to-Ribbon (RTR) process, silicon sheet growth development for the large area silicon sheet task of the Low Cost Silicon Solar Array Project. Technical annual report. Motorola report No. 2256/3
Laser-zone growth in a Ribbon-to-Ribbon (RTR) process. Silicon Sheet Growth Development for the Large Area Silicon Sheet Task of the Low Cost Silicon Solar Array Project. Technical quarterly report No. 5. Motorola report No. 2256/6
Related Subjects
36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
SILICON
CRYSTAL GROWTH
SILICON SOLAR CELLS
FABRICATION
DISLOCATIONS
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
EFFICIENCY
EVALUATION
LASERS
MATERIALS TESTING
RESEARCH PROGRAMS
SHEETS
THERMAL STRESSES
CRYSTAL DEFECTS
CRYSTAL STRUCTURE
DIRECT ENERGY CONVERTERS
ECONOMICS
ELEMENTS
LINE DEFECTS
PHOTOELECTRIC CELLS
PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS
SEMIMETALS
SOLAR CELLS
STRESSES
TESTING
140501* - Solar Energy Conversion- Photovoltaic Conversion
360601 - Other Materials- Preparation & Manufacture