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- Publisher
- Emerald Publishing
- Copyright
- Copyright © 2011 Emerald Group Publishing Limited. All rights reserved.
- ISSN
- 0144-5154
- DOI
- 10.1108/01445151111104119
- Publisher site
- See Article on Publisher Site
Abstract
Purpose – The aim of this paper is to provide a review of the present‐day and anticipated future uses of lasers in the production of solar cells. Design/methodology/approach – Following a brief introduction to photovoltaics (PV), this paper first describes the two main types of solar cell, crystalline silicon and thin film and then discusses the use of lasers in their manufacture. Finally, future developments are considered. Findings – The paper shows that lasers are used in the manufacture of both crystalline silicon and thin film PV. Applications are many and varied, e.g. edge isolation, hole drilling, border deletion and selective doping but few are yet adopted universally across the industry. Significant future prospects exist for laser‐based processes, as solar cell manufacturers seek to improve conversion efficiency and reduce production costs. Originality/value – The paper shows that lasers play a vital role in solar cell manufacture and many additional applications will arise as photovoltaic technology is further developed.
Journal
Assembly Automation – Emerald Publishing
Published: Feb 22, 2011
Keywords: Lasers; Solar power; Silicon; Semiconductors; Thin films; Research