Characterization and analysis of multilayer solar cells

The unique attribute of the new multilayer solar cell structure based on multiple interleaved n- and p-type layers is that high efficiencies are feasible using polycrystalline silicon material orders of magnitude poorer in quality than that presently used in commercial bulk devices. This paper describes the results from the characterization and analysis of this new device concept as well as progress towards realizing high performance devices upon low quality material. The latter has involved experimentation with multilayers deposited onto "inert" crystalline substrates, crystallization of layers deposited onto glass, and "slag-free" laser grooving of silicon to simplify processing.