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Solar Cell

A Solar Cell is a device that converts light energy into electrical energy using the photovoltaic effect. A solar cell is also known as a photovoltaic cell(PV cell). A solar cell is made up of two types of semiconductors, one is called the p-type silicon layer and the n-type silicon layer. So Solar cell is a p-n junction diode.

The solar energy from the sun in the form of photons creates loose electrons on the n-type semiconductor and holes on the p-type semiconductor. These loose electrons are collected on the aluminum layer and start flowing thus resulting in an electric current.



Solar Cell

A solar cell is a device that converts light energy into electrical energy using the photovoltaic effect. It is also known as a Photovoltaic cell.



Primary Key Terminologies of Solar Cell

Properties of Solar Cell

Construction of Solar Cell

A solar cell is basically made up of p-n junction diode. Solar cell principle layer is made up of anti-reflective cover glass because it protects semi-conductor materials against the sunlight. Solar Cell consists of small grid patterns with slight metallic strips are available under the glass. The top layer of solar cell is made using glass, metallic strips and anti-reflective coat. Solar cell consists of two semiconductor layers which are made up of p-type and n-type materials. A very thin layer of p-type semiconductor is grown on a relatively thicker n-type semiconductor. We need to apply few finer electrodes on the top of p-type semiconductor layer. So that these electrodes do not obstruct the light to reach the thin p-type layer. Just below the p-type layer there is a p-n junction. We need to provide a current collecting electrode at the bottom of the n-type layer. The base layer of this cell consist of two parts. A rear metallic electrode is beneath the p-type semiconductor and it works with the metallic grid to generate an electric current . A reflective layer is the last layer in this cell used to decrease the loss of light within the system. Solar cell top layer is covered with anti-reflective cover glass to prevent from any mechanical shocks.

Working of Solar Cell

When the light energy falls on a solar panel, then the solar panel absorbs the light energy. Each solar cell in solar panel has an semiconductor which has the properties like insulator and metal. When the energy of sun falls on the panel then a semiconductor material on the panel absorbs, the energy of photons transfers to electrons and allows the flow of electrons through the material like an electric current.

When the sunlight reaches the p-n junction, between the p and n-type semiconductors, photons easily enter through a thin p-type layer. The photons provide energy to the p-n junction, creating electron-hole pairs. This light disrupts the thermal equilibrium condition of the junction, then the free electrons to move to the n-type side of the junction. The holes move to the junction’s p-type side in a similar pattern. As a result, free electrons on the n-type side fail to move past the junction due to a potential barrier. The same barrier potential of the junction blocks the newly created holes, which causes an increased concentration of electrons on one side (at the n-type junction) and holes on the other side. This is the process involved in working of a solar cell.

Different types of Solar Cell

There are mainly classified into three different types of solar cells:

Monocrystalline Solar Cell

Polycrystalline Solar Cell

Thin film Solar Cell

Comparison Table for Different Types of Solar Cell

Type

Monocrystalline solar cells

Polycrystalline solar cells

Thin film solar cells

Efficiency

14%-18% solar cell efficiency

12%-14% solar cell efficiency

5%-6% solar cell efficiency

Temperature Tolerance

0% to +5%

-5% to +5%

-3% to +3%

Lifetime

25-30 year lifespan

20-25 year lifespan

15-20 year lifespan

Durability

Hail resistant 25 year P&M

25 year P&M Warranty

25 year P&M Warranty

Applications of Solar Cell

There are many Applications of Solar Cell which we use them in daily life:

Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Solar Cell

Solar Cell Types

Advantages

Disadvantages

Monocrystalline Solar Cells

  • High Efficiency/performance.
  • Aesthetics
  • Perform better in Low levels of sunlight.
  • Requires Less space.
  • Higher Cost
  • Lot of waste material when silicon is cut during manufacturing.

Polycrystalline Solar Cells

  • Low Cost
  • It avoids silicon waste.
  • Easier
  • Lower Efficiency/performance
  • Requires more space.

Thin film Solar Cells

  • Portable
  • Flexible
  • Lightweight
  • Aesthetics
  • Lowest Efficiency/performance
  • Shorter Lifespan.

Conclusion

Solar cell is a device which converts light energy into electrical energy using photovoltaic effect. we have seen the key terminologies and properties of solar cell. we have gone through the working and construction of solar cell. There are three different types of solar cells, we have learned the types of solar cells and applications of solar cells and their uses and we have seen their advantages and disadvantages of solar cell, we have explored the applications using solar cells. Finally we can learn that solar cells play an important role in maintaining the sustainable environment and eco-friendly environment. Solar cells are becoming more popular and efficient and is used in residential home or commercial residence and industrial applications in our daily life.

FAQs on Solar Cell

1. What is the lifespan of Solar Cell?

The lifespan of an Solar Cell generally has 25-30 years, and these come along with warranties based on their performance from the manufacturer.

2. What type of material is used in making solar cells?

Type of material which is used in making solar cells is Crystalline silicon. This Crystalline silicon cells is made by connecting silicon atoms one to one another to form a crystal lattice. This crystal lattice makes efficient conversion of electric current.

3. Why do we need to use Solar Cell?

We need to use Solar Cell because ,Solar cells last for longer time and it has no maintenance cost. Solar Cells provide sustainable environment because no pollution is associated by using solar panels.


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