Solar Cell with Passivation Layer with Varying Conductivity

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

The invention describes a solar cell that uses a hydrogen-containing passivation layer whose electrical conductivity increases from the inner side to the outer side, either in discrete steps or gradually. This layer sits within the light-transmitting front contact and serves both to passivate surface defects (improving efficiency) and enhance electrical conductivity where needed, optimizing the overall cell performance.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Photovoltaic solar panels for residential, commercial, or industrial electricity generation
• Integration in rooftop solar modules to maximize power conversion efficiency
• Solar cells for portable or autonomous electronic devices
• Application in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) such as solar windows or façade elements
• Use in space or high-performance solar arrays, where high efficiency is critical

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Improved energy conversion efficiency by optimizing both the passivation and conductivity properties in the solar cell front contact
• Better surface passivation reduces recombination losses, leading to higher electrical output
• The design enables tailoring of electrical properties across the layer for optimal current flow and device performance
• Potential for thinner, more transparent front layers, contributing to lightweight and flexible solar modules
• Compatibility with existing silicon solar cell technologies and manufacturing processes

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a solar cell (1) comprising a light-permeable front contact (3), a rear contact (4), and a conversion layer (2) between the front contact (3) and the rear contact (4) for generating free charge carriers using light, wherein the front contact (3) comprises a hydrogen-containing passivation layer (6, 7). The invention is characterized in that the electric conductivity of the hydrogen-containing passivation layer (6, 7) increases from the inside to the outside in at least three increments and/or at least partly continuously.