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The growth and characterization of epitaxial solar cells on re-solidified metallurgical grade silicon

Journal Article · · RCA Rev.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5426660
This paper describes the results obtained at RCA Laboratories in the development of a solar-cell process based on using epitaxial thin films grown on a substrate made from low-cost metallurgical-grade (MG) silicon. The properties of the starting MG feedstock are described and related to the observed problem of SiC particle formation during ingot solidification. Data obtained on the size, spacial distribution in ingots, and the subsequent effect of particles on epitaxial solar-cell performance are presented. Methods for significantly reducing the SiC particle density were developed and are discussed along with the characteristics of solar cells made in particle-free material. The rotary-disc reactor used for epitaxial growth of solar-cell structures and its scale-up to large area and high throughput is described.
Research Organization:
RCA Laboratories, Princeton, NJ 08540
OSTI ID:
5426660
Journal Information:
RCA Rev.; (United States), Journal Name: RCA Rev.; (United States) Vol. 44:1; ISSN RCARC
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English