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Title: Research on stable, high-efficiency, large-area, amorphous-silicon-based submodules, Task B: Semiannual subcontract report, 16 March 1988--15 September 1988

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/6108000· OSTI ID:6108000

This research concerns the improvement of the efficiency and stability of large-area amorphous silicon photovoltaic submodules, based on both single- and tandem-junction device structures. For the improvement of cell efficiency, carbon-graded a-Si/sub x/C/sub 1-x/:H p-layers, ITO/Ag back reflectors, alternate SnO/sub 2/ substrates, and TiO/sub x/ recombination layers at the n/p interface of tandem cells are described. Significant contributions to the study of transport and defect states in a-Si:H were made using the steady-state photocarrier grating technique, charge collection in thick p-i-n structures, thermally stimulated currents, and current DLTS. An extensive study of the deposition of SiO/sub 2/ barrier layers on soda lime glass to improve SnO/sub 2/:F conductivity is reported. Submodule research includes laser isolation, active scribe tracking, post-fabrication defect removal, and a new interconnect scheme employing two levels of metallization. Power output and aperture area efficiency for single junction submodules were 5.9W (7.0%) for 1 /times/ 1 sq. ft. and 17.7W (6.9%) for 1 /times/ 3 sq. ft. Outdoor stability tests on glass-glass encapsulated tandem submodules are also described.

Research Organization:
Solar Energy Research Inst. (SERI), Golden, CO (United States); Chronar Corp., Princeton, NJ (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-83CH10093
OSTI ID:
6108000
Report Number(s):
SERI/STR-211-3528; ON: DE89009439
Resource Relation:
Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English