Application of wafers in solar cells is not only reflected in its role as a basic material, but also includes the important role of improving efficiency through technological innovation, adapting to high temperature environments, and promoting sustainable development.
The application of wafers in solar cells is mainly concentrated in the following aspects:
1. Basic materials for solar cells
- Silicon wafers are the core materials for manufacturing solar cells, usually made of monocrystalline silicon or polycrystalline silicon. They constitute an important part of photovoltaic panels by converting sunlight into electrical energy.
2. Improving energy conversion efficiency
- Selective absorbers: Researchers are using improved silicon wafer structures to develop solar absorbers that can selectively absorb light of specific wavelengths. This technology can effectively improve energy conversion efficiency and reduce heat re-radiation, thereby improving the overall performance of solar cells.
- Bifacial solar wafers: The emerging bifacial design enables solar cells to capture sunlight from both the front and back, further increasing power generation and improving overall efficiency.
3. Application in high temperature environments
- High temperature resistance: The modified silicon wafers can maintain stable performance at high temperatures close to 535 degrees Celsius, which makes them suitable for high-temperature application scenarios such as concentrated solar power generation systems, ensuring that the equipment still operates efficiently under extreme conditions.
4. Manufacturing process innovation
- Passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC) technology: This technology improves light capture and conversion capabilities by adding a passivation layer to the back of the cell, resulting in 1% to 2% higher efficiency and improved performance under low light conditions.
- Heterojunction technology (HJT): Combining monocrystalline silicon with amorphous silicon thin film layers significantly improves efficiency and reduces temperature-induced energy losses, making panels using HJT more than 25% efficient.
5. Sustainable development and market growth
- The solar wafer market is growing rapidly as demand for renewable energy increases. Manufacturers are gradually adopting sustainable practices, such as the use of recycled materials and energy-saving production processes, to meet environmental protection requirements.
In summary, the application of wafers in solar cells is not only reflected in its role as a basic material, but also includes the important role of improving efficiency through technological innovation, adapting to high temperature environments, and promoting sustainable development.