Degradation of crystalline silicon solar cells

In summary, the lifespan of crystalline silicon solar cells is typically 20-30 years, defined by a drop in efficiency to less than 10%. However, the specific reasons for this degradation are not well-studied, with some suggesting that it may be due to dirt build-up on the glass covering the cells. There is also research showing that cleaning the cells with acids and alkalis can restore their performance, but this may not be a long-term solution. According to NREL, factors such as thermal cycling, damp heat, humidity freezing, and UV exposure can all contribute to solar panel degradation, making it difficult to predict the extent of degradation.
  • #1
Mayan Fung
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Hi there, it is commonly accepted that the lifespan of crystalline silicon solar cells is about 20-30years. And they define the lifespan as when the solar cells efficiency drop to about lower than 10%. However, what are the possible reasons for the degradation? I can only find research papers on the efficiency drop in several months, which may be related to some fundamental defaults in the materials. However, seems that no group studies the long-term degradation. Some suggested reasons like the glass covering the solar cells becomes dirty after years, etc.

And I found another research work where the group performed some treatment on the old silicon solar cells (basically cleaning it with some acids and alkalis). They then claimed that the silicon wafer can perform like a brand-new one and be used again in making new cells. If that's the case, that means the silicon part shouldn't change too much after years. That's why I am so curious about why there is such a great efficiency drop.
 
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  • #2
Don't you mean drop by 10% rather than drop to 10%?
 
  • #3
A bit of googling found this

https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com/2017/06/causes-solar-panel-degradation/
According to NREL, modules can fail because of unavoidable elements like thermal cycling, damp heat, humidity freeze and UV exposure. Thermal cycling can cause solder bond failures and cracks in solar cells. Damp heat has been associated with delamination of encapsulants and corrosion of cells. Humidity freezing can cause junction box adhesion to fail. UV exposure contributes to discoloration and backsheet degradation. These things just happen, and it’s difficult to determine how bad the degradation will be.
 
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Likes OmCheeto and Mayan Fung
  • #4
anorlunda said:
A bit of googling found this
Thanks! That's a very useful article. That also means some of the failures such as cracks cannot be simply fixed by like cleaning the silicon wafer and the silicon wafer can neither perform like a brand-new one just after some kind of simple treatments.
 

1. What is the cause of degradation in crystalline silicon solar cells?

The most common cause of degradation in crystalline silicon solar cells is exposure to environmental factors such as moisture, temperature fluctuations, and UV radiation. This can lead to the breakdown of the materials used in the solar cell, resulting in reduced efficiency and performance over time.

2. How does temperature affect the degradation of crystalline silicon solar cells?

High temperatures can accelerate the degradation of crystalline silicon solar cells, as it causes the materials to expand and contract, leading to micro-cracks and delamination. This can also cause changes in the electrical properties of the solar cell, reducing its efficiency.

3. Can the degradation of crystalline silicon solar cells be prevented?

While degradation cannot be completely prevented, it can be slowed down through proper installation and maintenance of the solar cells. This includes protecting them from extreme temperatures, moisture, and UV radiation, as well as regular cleaning and inspections to detect any potential issues early on.

4. How long do crystalline silicon solar cells typically last?

The lifespan of crystalline silicon solar cells can vary depending on the quality of materials used and how well they are maintained. Generally, they can last anywhere from 25 to 30 years, but with proper care, they can continue to produce electricity for even longer.

5. Are there any new technologies being developed to improve the degradation of crystalline silicon solar cells?

Yes, research is ongoing to develop new materials and techniques that can improve the durability and performance of crystalline silicon solar cells. This includes using anti-reflective coatings, encapsulation materials, and advanced manufacturing processes to reduce the impact of environmental factors on the solar cells.

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