Analysis of loss mechanisms in InGaN solar cells using a semi-analytical model

Xuanqi Huang, Houqiang Fu, Hong Chen, Zhijian Lu, Ding Ding, Yuji Zhao

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

18 Scopus citations

Abstract

InGaN semiconductors are promising candidates for high-efficiency next-generation thin film solar cells. In this work, we study the photovoltaic performance of single-junction and two-junction InGaN solar cells using a semi-analytical model. We analyze the major loss mechanisms in InGaN solar cell including transmission loss, thermalization loss, spatial relaxation loss, and recombination loss. We find that transmission loss plays a major role for InGaN solar cells due to the large bandgaps of III-nitride materials. Among the recombination losses, Shockley-Read-Hall recombination loss is the dominant process. Compared to other III-V photovoltaic materials, we discovered that the emittance of InGaN solar cells is strongly impacted by Urbach tail energy. For two- and multi-junction InGaN solar cells, we discover that the current matching condition results in a limited range of top-junction bandgaps. This theoretical work provides detailed guidance for the design of high-performance InGaN solar cells.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number213101
JournalJournal of Applied Physics
Volume119
Issue number21
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 7 2016

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Physics and Astronomy

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Analysis of loss mechanisms in InGaN solar cells using a semi-analytical model'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this