MULTICRYSTALLINE SILICON FOR SOLAR CELLS

Abstract

Single and multicrystalline silicon wafers for terrestrial solar cell application can be prepared either by semi- and unconventional bulk growth methods including post growth wafering or by a variety of sheet growth techniques. Pros and cons of the various growth techniques and the different multicrystalline silicon qualities obtained with them are discussed in the light of : 1. issues and benefits of individual growth techniques and their potential in long-range conceptualization, 2. possibility of integrating refining steps, 3. repercussion of growth techniques on material quality, and 4. photoelectric properties. A successful utilization of a solar grade starting material with lower purity requires not only modifications of individual growth techniques but also solar cell preparation techniques adjusted to the respective silicon sheet material.