How does the reflectivity of silicon change with current?

In summary, the reflectivity of silicon does not change significantly with the flow of current in a solar cell. The light that strikes the silicon produces electron-hole pairs, which are collected at opposite electrodes and generate a current when the cell is connected. When the cell is not connected, the electron-hole pairs recombine within the silicon, producing heat. The reflectivity is not affected by this process. Additionally, absorption remains the same due to the short life time of the electron-hole pairs. In other materials with longer life times, absorption can be saturated, as seen in certain lasers.
  • #1
shantanuphadke
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Hello I am trying to fabricate a Si reflecting solar cell.

When a Solar cell is exposed to radiation and connected to external circuit, the current will start to flow through the circuit. So I want to know how does the Reflectivity of silicon change with the current( or conductance).[ Initially when solar cell is irradiated but not connected to circuit, the current is zero. when connected to external circuit, current rises. So how does the reflectivity change with change in current]

If the question is not clear please let me know

Thank you in advance for your help.:smile:
 
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  • #2
Reflectivity does not really change a lot whether the current is flowing or not. Light produces electron-hole pairs in the silicon. When the cell is connected there are collected at opposite electrodes and thus generates a current.

When the cell is not connected no current flows so eventually an electric field builds up that stops the electrons and holes from being collected at the electrodes. Instead they just recombine within the silicon, producing heat.

All this has very little to do with the reflectivity, therefore the reflectivity does not change.
 
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  • #3
I was thinking in this way,
Transmission through the back silvered black silvered solar cell is zero.
So Energy is either absorbed or reflected.
Does the absorption remain the same?

Thank you!
 
  • #4
Yes, absorption remains the same due to the short life time of the electron hole pair.

In other materials with a very long life time you can saturate the absorption. This can happen in certain lasers

http://www.orc.soton.ac.uk/publications/theses/1400T_clb/clb-5.pdf [Broken]
 
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1. What is a silicon reflecting solar cell?

A silicon reflecting solar cell is a type of photovoltaic cell that is made from silicon, a common semiconductor material. It is designed to reflect light that is not absorbed by the cell, increasing its efficiency and reducing heat buildup.

2. How does a silicon reflecting solar cell work?

A silicon reflecting solar cell works by using the properties of silicon to convert sunlight into electricity. The silicon absorbs photons from sunlight, knocking electrons loose and creating a flow of electricity. The reflective coating on the cell helps to bounce any remaining light back into the cell, increasing the amount of electricity produced.

3. What are the advantages of using silicon reflecting solar cells?

There are several advantages to using silicon reflecting solar cells. Firstly, silicon is a widely available and relatively inexpensive material. Additionally, the reflective coating helps to improve the efficiency of the cell, leading to a higher energy output. Silicon reflecting solar cells are also durable and have a long lifespan, making them a sustainable and cost-effective option for solar energy production.

4. Are there any limitations to using silicon reflecting solar cells?

One limitation of silicon reflecting solar cells is that they are less effective in low light conditions. This is because the reflective coating relies on the presence of sunlight to bounce light back into the cell. Additionally, silicon reflecting solar cells are not as efficient as other types of solar cells, such as those made from gallium arsenide or cadmium telluride.

5. How are silicon reflecting solar cells being improved?

Scientists are constantly working to improve the efficiency and performance of silicon reflecting solar cells. One way this is being done is through the development of new reflective coatings that are more effective at bouncing light back into the cell. Additionally, research is being done to create hybrid solar cells that combine the benefits of silicon with other materials to increase efficiency. Nanotechnology is also being used to create thinner, more flexible silicon reflecting solar cells that can be used in a wider range of applications.

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