SOL-GEL COATINGS FOR LIGHT TRAPPING IN CRYSTALLINE THIN-FILM SILICON SOLAR-CELLS

An increase of light absorption by light trapping is a key issue for t he design of thin film solar cells from crystalline silicon. According to our numerical work, the deposition of crystalline silicon layers o f thickness, W = 4 mu m, on textured glass substrates doubles the cell current for facet angles, alpha = 75 degrees, and texture periods, p < 16 mu m, without the need for anti reflection coatings. We demonstra te the fabrication of such micron-sized light traps by embossing of so l-gel glasses. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.