New Methodology for Detecting Defects in Transparent Solar Cells
Conventional solar cells are based on the principle of generating electricity through light absorption. For this reason, technologies developed so far use highly absorbent materials to ensure optimal utilization of the solar spectrum. However, this characteristic poses a limitation for the integration of photovoltaics in applications such as architecture, where the opacity of traditional solar cells is incompatible with the required functional and aesthetic needs.
In recent years, intensive work has been carried out on the development of third-generation photovoltaic devices, including transparent solar cells. These devices are designed to optimize electricity generation by utilizing the infrared and/or ultraviolet spectrum of solar radiation, while simultaneously minimizing absorption in the visible spectrum and color distortion.
Due to the complexity of the manufacturing processes for transparent solar cells, it is essential to develop techniques that allow defects to be detected during device production. This not only ensures the final product quality but also helps reduce manufacturing costs and optimize synthesis processes.
In collaboration with companies and research centers participating in the FOTO-CER project, Lenz Instruments has developed a set of techniques to detect defects in transparent solar cells. The proposed methodologies are based on the application of non-destructive optical techniques, which facilitate the inspection of devices during the intermediate stages of the manufacturing process.
In this way, the combination of data obtained from spectral reflectance and Raman spectroscopy enables the detection of a wide variety of defects related to the materials’ microstructure, their optical properties, and their ability to prevent device degradation throughout its lifecycle.
The FOTO-CER project has received funding from the CDTI, which is supported by the Ministry of Science and Innovation and with funding from the European Union -NextGenerationEU- through the guidelines included in the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan.
