What is crystalline silicon solar cells?

Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells addresses the practical and theoretical issues fundamental to the viable conversion of sunlight into electricity. Written by three internationally renowned experts, this valuable reference profits from results and experience gained from research at the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Show all

What is crystalline silicon?

In solar cell fabrication, crystalline silicon is either referred to as the multicrystalline silicon (multi-Si) or monocrystalline silicon (mono-Si) [70–72]. The multi-Si is further categorized as the polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si) or the semi-crystalline silicon, consisting of small and multiple crystallites.

Are crystalline silicon solar cells a viable alternative energy source?

As environmental concerns escalate, solar power is increasingly seen as an attractive alternative energy source. Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells addresses the practical and theoretical issues fundamental to the viable conversion of sunlight into electricity.

How long do crystalline silicon solar cells last?

The first crystalline silicon based solar cell was developed almost 40 years ago, and are still working properly. Most of the manufacturing companies offer the 10 years or even longer warranties, on the crystalline silicon solar cells.

What is the efficiency of crystalline silicon solar cells?

Commercially, the efficiency for mono-crystalline silicon solar cells is in the range of 16–18% (Outlook, 2018). Together with multi-crystalline cells, crystalline silicon-based cells are used in the largest quantity for standard module production, representing about 90% of the world's total PV cell production in 2008 (Outlook, 2018).

Which crystalline material is used in solar cell manufacturing?

Multi and single crystalline are largely utilized in manufacturing systems within the solar cell industry. Both crystalline silicon wafers are considered to be dominating substrate materials for solar cell fabrication.