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Photovoltaic modules have developed into mass products sold in billions and applied all over the world enabling a renewable energy supply. Reliability and sustainability are key factors for the success of Photovoltaics in all climate zones. The second edition of this interdisciplinary book provides insight into relevant environmental aspects (climates), material and module testing equipment and approaches, service life prediction modelling and standardisation of wafer-based photovoltaic modules. The book also addresses recent research and developments on the sustainability assessment of photovoltaic modules including end of life measures and legislation.

Photovoltaic Modules: Technology and Reliability provides unique insights into concepts, material design strategies, manufacturing techniques, quality and service life analysis of wafer-based photovoltaic modules. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, the authors focus on two main topics. Part I – Crystalline Silicone Module Technology offers photovoltaics fundamentals: solar cell properties, module design, materials and production, basic module characterization, module power as well as efficiency and module performance. Part II, on the other hand, illustrates the state-of-the-art of module reliability by characterization of modules and degradation effects, examination of PV-Module loads, accelerated aging tests as well as reliability testing of materials and modules. A separate chapter is dedicated to PV module and component certification.

How to get the best out of solar cells, when aiming for efficiency, power, reliability, and cost? After decades of R&D focus on the cell, recently the module has entered the stage and demonstrated huge innovation potential. Photovoltaic Module Technology provides unique insights into state-of-the-art materials, design strategies, manufacturing techniques, and characterization methods of wafer-based photovoltaic modules. Many properties of solar cells are highly relevant for module integration. They set the starting point for understanding the implications of different interconnection and encapsulation technologies. Module design and the choice of materials are described for both state-of-the-art and advanced module technology, with special attention attributed to the key processes of module assembly.

This book covers solar energy and the use of solar radiation in connection with lighting. It provides a detailed introduction to solar energy, photovoltaic (PV) solar energy conversion, and solar lighting technologies, while also discussing all of these elements in the context of the Balkan Peninsula. In the context of solar energy, the book covers a range of elements, from the structure of the sun, to PV solar plants. It subsequently addresses the status quo of solar technologies in Bulgaria, Serbia and the Republika Srpska and analyses the development of these technologies over the years, including their economic status, and how these aspects have shaped their current status. Undergraduate and graduate students, researchers and professionals, particularly those based in the Balkans, will find this book both informative and interesting.

This book covers the recent advances in photovoltaics materials and their innovative applications. Many materials science problems are encountered in understanding existing solar cells and the development of more efficient, less costly, and more stable cells. This important and timely book provides a historical overview, but concentrates primarily on the exciting developments in the last decade. It includes organic and perovskite solar cells, photovoltaics in ferroelectric materials, organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite, materials with improved photovoltaic efficiencies as well as the full range of semiconductor materials for solar-to-electricity conversion, from crystalline silicon and amorphous silicon to cadmium telluride, copper indium gallium sulfide selenides, dye sensitized solar cells, organic solar cells, and environmentally-friendly copper zinc tin sulfide selenides.

The need to address the energy problem and formulate a lasting solution to tame climate change has never been so urgent. The rise of various renewable energy sources, such as solar cell technologies, has given humanity a glimpse of hope that can delay the catastrophic effects of these problems after decades of neglect. This review volume provides in-depth discussion of the fundamental photophysical processes as well as the state-of-the-art device engineering of various emerging photovoltaic technologies, including organic (fullerene, non-fullerene, and ternary), dye-sensitized (ruthenium, iron, and quantum dot), and hybrid metal-halide perovskite solar cells. The book is essential reading for graduate and postgraduate students involved in the photophysics and materials science of solar cell technologies.

This book explores the scientific basis of the photovoltaic effect, solar cell operation, various types of solar cells, and the main process used in their manufacture. It addresses a range of topics, including the production of solar silicon; silicon-based solar cells and modules; the choice of semiconductor materials and their production-relevant costs and performance; device structures, processing, and manufacturing options for the three major thin-film PV technologies; high-performance approaches for multi-junction, concentrator, and space applications; and new types of organic polymer and dye-sensitized solar cells. The book also presents a concept for overcoming the efficiency limit of today's solar cells. Accessible for beginners, while also providing detailed information on the physics and technology for experts, the book is a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and graduate students in fields such as physics, materials, energy, electrical and electronic engineering and microelectronics.

Silicon-Germanium Alloys for Photovoltaic Applications provides a comprehensive look at the use of Silicon-Germanium alloys Si1-xGex in photovoltaics. Different methods of Si1-xGex alloy deposition are reviewed, including their optical and material properties as function of Ge% are summarized, with SiGe use in photovoltaic applications analyzed. Fabrication and characterization of single junction Si1-xGex solar cells on Si using a-Si as emitter is discussed, with a focus on the effect of different Ge%. Further, the book highlights the use Si1-xGex as a template for lattice matched deposition of III-V layers on Si, along with its challenges and benefits, including financial aspects. Finally, fabrication and characterization of single junction GaAsxP1-x cells on Si via Si1-xGex is discussed, along with the simulation and modeling of graded SiGe layers and experimental model verification. - Includes a summary of SiGe alloys material properties relevant for solar research, all compiled at one place - Presents various simulation models and analysis of SiGe material properties on solar cell performance - Includes a cost-analysis for III-V/Si solar cells via SiGe alloys

Third-generation solar cells (SCs) are built on inorganic nanoparticles, hybrids, or semiconducting organic macromolecules. This book focuses on dye-sensitized solar cells, polymer/organic solar cells, copper/zinc/tin sulfide thin film cells, quantum dot solar cells and perovskite-based solar cells. Specific topics covered include device architecture, interface engineering, characterization, and fabrication techniques such as spin coating, blade coating, slot-die coating, dip coating, meniscus coating, spray coating, ink-jet printing, screen printing and electro deposition. Keywords: Fullerene-Containing Polymers, Light-Sensitive Dye, Organic Solar Cells, Perovskite Film, Quantum Dots, Thin Film Solar Cells.

Metal Oxides for Next Generation Optoelectronic, Photonic and Photovoltaic Applications focuses on the optoelectronic, photonic and photovoltaic behaviors of metallic oxides and closely related phenomena, from elementary principles to the latest findings. Each chapter includes a comprehensive evaluation of the synthesis and characterization of the most relevant metal oxides nanostructures for each application. In addition, there is a focus on methods to tune the materials'properties in order to improve devices performance. This book is suitable for researchers and practitioners in academia and industry working in the disciplines of materials science and engineering, chemistry and physics. Metal oxides are widely used in various optoelectronic devices, photonics, display devices, smart windows, sensors, optical components, energy-saving, and harvesting devices. Each application requires materials with their own specific properties. By controlling the particle size, shape, crystal structure, one can tune various properties of metal oxides viz. bandgap, absorption properties, conductivity, which alter the material for the specific application. - Includes discussions of synthesis and characterization of metal oxides materials for applications in next-generation optoelectronic, photonic and photovoltaic devices - Emphasizes material design strategies of metal oxide nanostructures - Focuses on the optoelectronic, photonic and photovoltaic behaviors of metallic oxides and closely related phenomena, from elementary principles to the latest findings

This book focuses on solar energy and its applications in Iraq and its neighboring countries. Iraq suffers from electricity shortages and faces many challenges to meet and overcome current and future increases in electrical demand. Although Iraq relies primarily on petroleum as an energy source, many scientists agree that the future of energy efficiency and safety will rely heavily on the implementation of green and renewable energies. This book is aimed at researchers, policymakers, and students and discusses how PV systems can be successfully implemented in order to reduce dependency on fossil fuel resources.Contains case studies and examples to enhance practical application of the technologies presented;Presents actual adopted Iraqi PV projects;Explains the use and application of photovoltaic cells.

This book illustrates theories in photovoltaic power generation, and focuses on the application of photovoltaic system, such as on-grid and off-grid system optimization design. The principle of the solar cell and manufacturing processes, the design and installation of PV system are extensively discussed in the book, making it an essential reference for graduate students in photovoltaic field and industrial engineers.

This book presents an original investigation into alternative photovoltaic absorbers. Solar power is a highly promising renewable energy solution; however, its success is hampered by the limited cost-effectiveness of current devices. The book assesses the photovoltaic performance of over 20 materials using state-of-the-art, first-principles methods. Adopting a computational approach, it investigates atomic-scale properties at a level of accuracy that is difficult to achieve using laboratory-based experimental techniques. Unlike many theoretical studies, it provides specific advice to those involved in experimental investigations. Further, it proposes directions for future research. This book advances the field of photovoltaics in three crucial ways: firstly, it identifies why one class of proposed materials cannot achieve high efficiency, while at the same time gaining insights that can be used to design future absorbers. Secondly, it shows that poor performance in the bismuth chalcohalides is not due to fundamental limitations, and can be overcome by finely controlling synthesis conditions. Lastly, it describes a range of new stable materials that are expected to show excellent photovoltaic performance.

This book provides the most up-to-date information on hybrid solar cell and solar thermal collectors, which are commonly referred to as Photovoltaic/Thermal (PV/T) systems. PV/T systems convert solar radiation into thermal and electrical energy to produce electricity, utilize more of the solar spectrum, and save space by combining the two structures to cover lesser area than two systems separately. Research in this area is growing rapidly and is highlighted within this book. The most current methods and techniques available to aid in overall efficiency, reduce cost and improve modeling and system maintenance are all covered. In-depth chapters present the background and basic principles of the technology along with a detailed review of the most current literature. Moreover, the book details design criteria for PV/T systems including residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Provides an objective and decisive source for the supporters of green and renewable source of energy Discusses and evaluates state-of-the-art PV/T system designs Proposes and recommends potential designs for future research on this topic

Today, the silicon feedstock for photovoltaic cells comes from processes which were originally developed for the microelectronic industry. It covers almost 90% of the photovoltaic market, with mass production volume at least one order of magnitude larger than those devoted to microelectronics. However, it is hard to imagine that this kind of feedstock (extremely pure but heavily penalized by its high energy cost) could remain the only source of silicon for a photovoltaic market which is in continuous expansion, and which has a cumulative growth rate in excess of 30% in the last few years. Even though reports suggest that the silicon share will slowly decrease in the next twenty years, finding a way to manufacture a specific solar grade feedstock in large quantities, at a low cost while maintaining the quality needed, still remains a crucial issue. Thin film and quantum confinement-based silicon cells might be a complementary solution. Advanced Silicon Materials for Photovoltaic Applications has been designed to describe the full potentialities of silicon as a multipurpose material and covers: Physical, chemical and structural properties of silicon Production routes including the promise of low cost feedstock for PV applications Defect engineering and the role of impurities and defects Characterization techniques, and advanced analytical techniques for metallic and non-metallic impurities Thin film silicon and thin film solar cells Innovative quantum effects, and 3rd generation solar cells With contributions from internationally recognized authorities, this book gives a comprehensive analysis of the state-of-the-art of process technologies and material properties, essential for anyone interested in the application and development of photovoltaics.

The principal aim of this NATO Advanced Study Institute (ASI)'Nanostructured and Advanced Materials for Applications in Sensor, Optoelectronic and Photovoltaic Technology'was to present a contemporary overview of the field of nanostructured and advanced electronic materials. Nanotechnology is an emerging scientific field receiving significant worldwide attention. On a nanometer scale, materials or structures may possess new and unique physical properties. Some of these are now known to the scientific community, but there may well be many properties not yet known to us, rendering it as a fascinating area of research and a suitable subject for a NATO ASI. Yet another aspect of the field is the possibility for creating meta-stable phases with unconventional properties and the ultra-miniaturization of current devices, sensors, and machines. Such nanotechnological and related advanced materials have an extremely wide range of potential applications, viz. nanoscale electronics, sensors, optoelectronics, photonics, nano-biological systems, na- medicine, energy storage systems, etc. This is a wide-ranging subject area and therefore requires the formation of multi-disciplinary teams of physicists, chemists, materials scientists, engineers, molecular biologists, pharmacologists, and others to work together on the synthesis and processing of materials and structures, the understanding of their physical properties, the design and fabrication of devices, etc. Hence, in formulating our ASI, we adopted an int- disciplinary approach, bringing together recognised experts in the various fields while retaining a level of treatment accessible to those active in specific individual areas of research and development.

This book focuses on organic semiconductors with particular attention paid to their use as photovoltaic devices. It addresses a fundamental and hitherto overlooked concept in the field of organic optoelectronics, namely the role that sub-gap states play in the performance of organic semiconducting devices. From a technological point of view, organic semiconductor-based devices are of significant interest due to their lightweight, ease of processability, conformal flexibility, and potentially low cost and low embodied energy production. Motivated by these rather unique selling points, the performance of organic semiconductors has been a subject of multidisciplinary study for more than 60 years with steady progress in applications such as solar cells, transistors, light emitting diodes, and various sensors.The book begins with a review of the main electro-optical phenomena in organic solar cells and presents a new method for measuring exciton diffusion lengths based on a low-quencher-content device structure. Furthermore, the book reveals how mid-gap trap states are a universal feature in organic semiconductor donor–acceptor blends, unexpectedly contributing to charge generation and recombination, and having profound impact on the thermodynamic limit of organic photovoltaic devices. Featuring cutting-edge experimental observations supported with robust and novel theoretical arguments, this book delivers important new insight as to the underlying dynamics of exciton generation and diffusion, charge transfer state dissociation, and indeed the ultimate fate of photogenerated free carriers.

The book provides an explanation of the operation of photovoltaic devices from a broad perspective that embraces a variety of materials concepts, from nanostructured and highly disordered organic materials, to highly efficient devices such as the lead halide perovskite solar cells. The book establishes from the beginning a simple but very rich model of a solar cell, in order to develop and understand step by step the photovoltaic operation according to fundamental physical properties and constraints. It emphasizes the aspects pertaining to the functioning of a solar cell and the determination of limiting efficiencies of energy conversion. The final chapters of the book establish a more refined and realistic treatment of the many factors that determine the actual performance of experimental devices: transport gradients, interfacial recombination, optical losses and so forth. The book finishes with a short review of additional important aspects of solar energy conversion, such as the photonic aspects of spectral modification, and the direct conversion of solar photons to chemical fuel via electrochemical reactions.

This book is a must-read for those interested in the aging phenomenon of materials used in new energy systems, such as photovoltaic and electric vehicles. It provides a fundamental framework for this topic and important basic data and references for insulation materials used in these systems. It covers the aging of photovoltaic systems installed in different environments, including space, as well as the aging of the discharge present in the drive motors of electric vehicles. This book is suitable for researchers and students interested in green energy systems and can be used for teaching, research, and science popularization.

Most photovoltaic (PV) installations utilise heavy conventional glass or polycarbonate panels, and even newly developed thin plastic or metal films for PV cell use may fracture during both construction and application. Textile fabrics, the most widespread flexible materials in everyday use, offer a solution to the need for lightweight, flexible solar PV generators. Solar Textiles: The Flexible Solution for Solar Power is about the incorporation and operation of solar cells on textile fabrics. The combination of textile manufacturing and solar PV cell technology opens up further avenues for both the textile and semiconductor industries. Thus, this book reflects the progressively increasing commercial interest in PV cell technology and the versatility that their integration in textiles provides. Discusses textiles as electrical substrates Explains the photovoltaic effect and associated parameters Offers special consideration of solar cells on textiles Compares fibres and fabrics and how to implement PV activity on a textile Describes manufacturing methods outside of semiconductor technology Includes applications open only to textiles This work is aimed at textile technologists, electronic engineers, solar technologists, civil engineers and designers in building fabrics and architecture.

Organic Solar Cells A timely and singular resource on the latest advances in organic photovoltaics Organic photovoltaics are gaining widespread attention due to their solution processability, tunable electronic properties, low temperature manufacture, and cheap and light materials. Their wide range of potential applications may result in significant near-term commercialization of the technology. In Organic Solar Cells: Materials Design, Technology and Commercialization, renowned scientist Dr. Liming Ding delivers a comprehensive exploration of organic solar cells, including discussions of their key materials, mechanisms, molecular designs, stability features, and applications. The book presents the most state-of-the-art developments in the field alongside fulsome treatments of the commercialization potential of various organic solar cell technologies. The author also provides: Thorough introductions to fullerene acceptors, polymer donors, and non-fullerene small molecule acceptors Comprehensive explorations of p-type molecular photovoltaic materials and polymer-polymer solar cell materials, devices, and stability Practical discussions of electron donating ladder-type heteroacenes for photovoltaic applications In-depth examinations of chlorinated organic and single-component organic solar cells, as well as the morphological characterization and manipulation of organic solar cells Perfect for materials scientists, organic and solid-state chemists, and solid-state physicists, Organic Solar Cells: Materials Design, Technology and Commercialization will also earn a place in the libraries of surface chemists and physicists and electrical engineers.

The book reviews recent research and new trends in the area of solar cell materials. Topics include fabrication methods, solar cell design, energy efficiency and commercialization of next-generation materials. Special focus is placed on graphene and carbon nanomaterials, graphene in dye-sensitized solar cells, perovskite solar cells and organic photovoltaic cells, as well as on transparent conducting electrode (TCE) materials, hollow nanostructured photoelectrodes, monocrystalline silicon solar cells (MSSC) and BHJ organic solar cells. Also discussed is the use of graphene, sulfides, and metal nanoparticle-based absorber materials. Keywords: Solar Cell, Graphene Nanomaterials, Carbon Nanomaterials, Graphene in Dye-sensitized Solar Cells, Perovskite Solar Cells, Organic Photovoltaic Cells, Transparent Conducting Electrode (TCE) Materials, Hollow Nanostructured Photoelectrodes, Monocrystalline Silicon Solar Cells (MSSC), BHJ Organic Solar Cells, Electrochemical Sensing, Low Band-Gap Materials, Absorber Materials for Solar Cells.

Nanomaterials are becoming increasingly important photovoltaic technologies from absorbers to contacts. This book is dedicated to describing the novel materials and technologies for photovoltaics that derive from these new and novel approaches in solar technologies. We have collected a set of renowned experts in their respective fields as authors and their expertise covers a broad set of areas including novel oxides, quantum dots, CZTS and organic solar cells, as well as light management and reliability testing. The organization of the book is divided into three sections; the first part deals with emerging photovoltaic absorbers and absorber approaches, the second part is focused on novel solar cell architectures and device concepts and components; and the last part is focused on their integration into module technologies. The first chapter is an introduction to the basics of solar cells technology facilitating an understanding by the non-expert of the following chapters. The book is intended for academics and professionals, at the research and R&D level in materials and devices, who are looking for opportunities for applications in the solar materials, devices and modules areas. Hopefully it will serve as a reference for students and professionals looking into the potential and development of novel photovoltaic technologies, researchers looking into the development of innovative projects, and teachers in the field of energy and sustainability. - Showcases a range of cutting-edge photovoltaic materials and devices, exploring their special properties and how they are best used - Assesses the challenges of fabricating solar cell devices using nanotechnology - Explores how producing cheaper modules, increasing reliability and increasing efficiency have led to new applications for photovoltaic devices

This book deals with existing technologies of solar energy conversion as well as novel methods under consideration in academic and commercial R&D sites. The experimental results presented in the work are well crafted by both analytical and first-principle numerical simulations. The book highlights the real potential for economically justified use of solar energy at every household and/or commercial solar farms. The ever-improving methods of thin-film epitaxial growth combined with a better understanding of the sun light absorption and antireflection are highlighted. While there was a period when the material quality was considered to be cornerstone of the conversion efficiency followed by substantial efforts to optimize multiple-cell architecture, it became clear that many old ideas such as variable band gap, multi-junction intrinsic region, as well as solar tracking mechanisms offer new possibilities for improved harvesting of energy. Amplifying the importance of materialsselection efficient design of the photo-voltaic elements various aspects of the production cost and the impact on the environment are discussed. In addition, the eligibility of the proposed production technologies in the current photovoltaic market are evaluated and confirmed.

This book examines the electronic structure of earth-abundant and environmentally friendly materials for use as absorber layers within photovoltaic cells. The corroboration between high-quality photoemission measurements and density of states calculations yields valuable insights into why these materials have demonstrated poor device efficiencies in the vast literature cited. The book shows how the materials'underlying electronic structures affect their properties, and how the band positions make them unsuitable for use with established solar cell technologies. After explaining these poor efficiencies, the book offers alternative window layer materials to improve the use of these absorbers. The power of photoemission and interpretation of the data in terms of factors generally overlooked in the literature, such as the materials'oxidation and phase impurity, is demonstrated. Representing a unique reference guide, the book will be of considerable interest and value to members of the photoemission community engaged in solar cell research, and to a wider materials science audience as well.

This book presents a detailed description, analysis, comparison of the latest research and developments in photovoltaic energy. Discussing everything from semiconductors to system integration, and applying various advanced technologies to stand alone and electric utility interfaced in normal and abnormal operating conditions of PV systems, this book provides a thorough introduction to the topic. This book brings together research from around the world, covering the use of technologies such as embedded systems, the Internet of things and blockchain technologies for PV systems for different applications including controllers, solar trackers and cooling systems. The book is of interest to electronic and mechanical engineers, researchers and students in the field of photovoltaics.

This book explores why the properties of liquid crystals make them ideal for use in photovoltaic applications. It achieves this by presenting a description of the properties of liquid crystals and how their electronic properties compare to that of polymers used in organic photovoltaics. It explores how the type of liquid crystal chosen can help in improving the efficiency of the photovoltaics. It compares experimental and theoretical ways in which the efficiency is directly or indirectly estimated between the organic photovoltaics and the organic photovoltaics that contain a liquid crystal. It first introduces liquid crystals and their different varieties, before reviewing their electronic transfer properties and how they can improve efficiency. It is an ideal text for graduate students and young researches considering entering the area of photovoltaics - specifically, organic photovoltaics – who do not yet have knowledge of this field. Introduces the field of liquid crystals and provides basic information to those new to the field, in a concise and visual manner Describes which characteristics of a liquid crystal are most advantageous to use in photovoltaics Provides basic knowledge of photovoltaics for those who do not have previous knowledge of how they behave electronically

Energy and climate change are two of the most critical issues nowadays. These two topics are also correlated to each other. Fossil fuels are the main energy supplies that have been used in modern history since the industrial revolution. The impact of CO2 emission has been a major concern for its effect on global warming and other consequences. In addition, fossil fuels are not unlimited. Due to the increasing demands for energy supplies, alternative renewable, sustainable, environmentally friendly energy resources are desirable.Solar energy is an unlimited, clean, and renewable energy source, which can be considered to replace the energy supply of fossil fuel. The silicon solar cell is one of the dominant photovoltaic technologies currently, which converting sunlight directly into electric power with around 20% efficiency. This technique was been widely used in mainstream solar energy applications for decades, though the relatively energy-demanding production process remained with challenges to be resolved.Recently, emerging photovoltaic technologies such as organometal halide hybrid perovskite solar cell has attracted tremendous attention due to their promising power conversion efficiencies (over 22%) and ease of fabrication. Their progress roadmap is unprecedented in photovoltaic history from the material development and efficiency advancement perspective. Beyond the rapid progress achieved in the last few years, it is expected that this novel technology would make an impact on the future solar cell market providing long-term stability and Pb content issues are addressed. These challenges rely on a better understanding of materials and device function principles. The scope of this book is to provide a collection on the recent investigations from fundamental process, materials development to device optimization for perovskite solar cells.

This book delves into the practical applications of perovskite materials in optoelectronics, covering solar cells, light-emitting diodes, photodetectors, neuromorphic devices, lasers, and X-ray detectors in various forms including bulk, two-dimensional (2D), and zero-dimensional (0D). It addresses the pressing need for scalable fabrication processes, performance optimization, and stability concerns associated with perovskite-based devices. With a detailed examination of fundamental properties and challenges, this book serves as a comprehensive guide for scientists, technologists, and engineers involved in developing and optimizing perovskite-based optoelectronic devices for commercialization. Furthermore, it fills a significant gap in the literature by providing in-depth coverage of perovskite solar cells and other emerging optoelectronic technologies, making it an essential resource for researchers and practitioners in materials and device physics.

This book presents selected peer-reviewed proceedings from the International Conference on Advanced Materials, Sustainable Energy, and Engineering (ICAMSEE2023), held at Ecole Normale Supérieure, University Moulay Ismail Meknes, Morocco, from November 27 to 29, 2023. The conference served as an exceptional platform for international and national scientists, professors, students, and industry professionals to convene and exchange knowledge in the fields of materials science, microscopy, engineering, technology, and energy. The book features contributions from researchers and experts, including keynote speakers, special sessions, posters, and tutorials, showcasing the latest advancements and developments in these areas of research.The topics covered in this book span a wide array of subjects within the realm of advanced materials, sustainable energy, and engineering. The forefront of materials science is explored, including nanomaterials, carbon nanotubes, graphene,materials for various applications, environmental protection, advanced optical materials, thermoelectric and magnetic materials, and additive manufacturing. Addressing the energy demands of today, the focus extends to novel materials for solar cells, energy storage, electronic devices, solar and wind energy, advanced thermal management materials, and materials for advanced water treatment and desalination. Sustainable energy and engineering topics encompass energy policy, clean energy production technologies, carbon capture and utilization, biomass energy, building energy efficiency, smart systems for climate change, and energy efficiency in mineral processing. Additionally, the book covers modeling and numerical simulations in material science, encompassing model development, computational techniques, and simulations in both material science and energy fields.

This book reports on the design, synthesis and characterization of new small molecule electron acceptors for polymer solar cells. Starting with a detailed introduction to the science behind polymer solar cells, the author then goes on to review the challenges and advances made in developing non-fullerene acceptors so far. In the main body of the book, the author describes the design principles and synthetic strategy for a new family of acceptors, including detailed synthetic procedures and molecular modeling data used to predict physical properties. An indepth characterization of the photovoltaic performance, with transient absorption spectroscopy (TAS), photo-induced charge extraction, and grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) is also included, and the author uses this data to relate material properties and device performance. This book provides a useful overview for researchers beginning a project in this or related areas.

Unparalleled coverage of the most vibrant research field in photovoltaics! Hybrid perovskites, revolutionary game-changing semiconductor materials, have every favorable optoelectronic characteristic necessary for realizing high efficiency solar cells. The remarkable features of hybrid perovskite photovoltaics, such as superior material properties, easy material fabrication by solution-based processing, large-area device fabrication by an inkjet technology, and simple solar cell structures, have brought enormous attentions, leading to a rapid development of the solar cell technology at a pace never before seen in solar cell history. Hybrid Perovskite Solar Cells: Characteristics and Operation covers extensive topics of hybrid perovskite solar cells, providing easy-to-read descriptions for the fundamental characteristics of unique hybrid perovskite materials (Part I) as well as the principles and applications of hybrid perovskite solar cells (Part II). Both basic and advanced concepts of hybrid perovskite devices are treated thoroughly in this book; in particular, explanatory descriptions for general physical and chemical aspects of hybrid perovskite photovoltaics are included to provide fundamental understanding. This comprehensive book is highly suitable for graduate school students and researchers who are not familiar with hybrid perovskite materials and devices, allowing the accumulation of the accurate knowledge from the basic to the advanced levels.

This book provides recent development in thin-film solar cells (TFSC). TFSC have proven the promising approach for terrestrial and space photovoltaics. TFSC have the potential to change the device design and produce high efficiency devices on rigid/flexible substrates with significantly low manufacturing cost. TFSC have several advantages in manufacturing compared to traditional crystalline Si-solar cells like less requirement of materials, can be prepared with earth's abundant materials, less processing steps, easy to dispose, etc. Several universities/research institutes/industry in India and abroad are involved in the research area of thin-film solar cells. The book helps the readers to find the details about different thin-film technologies and its advancement at one place. Each chapter covers properties of materials, its suitability for PV applications, simple manufacturing processes and recent and past literature survey. The issues related to the development of high efficiencyTFSC devices over large area and its commercial and future prospects are discussed.

Polycrystalline silicon (commonly called'polysilicon') is the material of choice for photovoltaic (PV) applications. Polysilicon is the purest synthetic material on the market, though its processing through gas purification and decomposition (commonly called'Siemens'process) carries high environmental risk. While many current optoelectronic applications require high purity, PV applications do not and therefore alternate processes and materials are being explored for PV grade silicon. Solar Silicon Processes: Technologies, Challenges, and Opportunities reviews current and potential future processing technologies for PV applications of solar silicon. It describes alternative processes and issues of material purity, cost, and environmental impact. It covers limits of silicon use with respect to high-efficiency solar cells and challenges arising from R&D activities. The book also defines purity requirements and purification processes of metallurgical grade silicon (MG-Si) and examines production of solar grade silicon by novel processes directly from MG-Si and/or by decomposition of silane gas in a fluidized bed reactor (FBR). Furthermore, the book: Analyzes past research and industrial development of low-cost silicon processes in view of understanding future trends in this field. Discusses challenges and probability of success of various solar silicon processes. Covers processes that are more environmentally sensitive. Describes limits of silicon use with respect to high-efficiency solar cells and challenges arising from R&D activities. Defines purity requirements and purification processes of MG-Si. Examines production of solar grade silicon directly from MG-Si.

What are the physical mechanisms that underlie the efficient generation and transfer of energy at the nanoscale? Nature seems to know the answer to this question, having optimised the process of photosynthesis in plants over millions of years of evolution. It is conceivable that humans could mimic this process using synthetic materials, and organic semiconductors have attracted a lot of attention in this respect. Once an organic semiconductor absorbs light, bound pairs of electrons with positively charged holes, termed `excitons', are formed. Excitons behave as fundamental energy carriers, hence understanding the physics behind their efficient generation and transfer is critical to realising the potential of organic semiconductors for light-harvesting and other applications, such as LEDs and transistors. However, this problem is extremely challenging since excitons can interact very strongly with photons. Moreover, simultaneously with the exciton motion, organic molecules canvibrate in hundreds of possible ways, having a very strong effect on energy transfer. The description of these complex phenomena is often beyond the reach of standard quantum mechanical methods which rely on the assumption of weak interactions between excitons, photons and vibrations. In this thesis, Antonios Alvertis addresses this problem through the development and application of a variety of different theoretical methods to the description of these strong interactions, providing pedagogical explanations of the underlying physics. A comprehensive introduction to organic semiconductors is followed by a review of the background theory that is employed to approach the relevant research questions, and the theoretical results are presented in close connection with experiment, yielding valuable insights for experimentalists and theoreticians alike.

This book presents selected articles from the Algerian Symposium on Renewable Energy and Materials (ASREM-2020) held at Médéa, Algeria. It highlights the latest advances in the field of green energies and material technology with specific accentuation on numerical plans and recent methodologies designed to solve engineering problems. It includes mathematical models and experimental measurements to study different problems in renewable energy and materials characterization, with contributions from experts in both academia and industry, and presents a platform to further collaborations in this important area.

Less than a decade ago, lead halide perovskite semiconductors caused a sensation: Solar cells exhibiting astonishingly high levels of efficiency. Recently, it became possible to synthesize nanocrystals of this material as well. Interestingly; simply by controlling the size and shape of these crystals, new aspects of this material literally came to light. These nanocrystals have proven to be interesting candidates for light emission. In this thesis, the recombination, dephasing and diffusion of excitons in perovskite nanocrystals is investigated using time-resolved spectroscopy. All these dynamic processes have a direct impact on the light-emitting device performance from a technology point of view. However, most importantly, the insights gained from the measurements allowed the author to modify the nanocrystals such that they emitted with an unprecedented quantum yield in the blue spectral range, resulting in the successful implementation of this material as theactive layer in an LED. This represents a technological breakthrough, because efficient perovskite light emitters in this wavelength range did not exist before.

This book presents selected papers from the International Conference on Renewable Energy Systems (ICRES 2020). It throws light over the state of the art of renewable energy sources and their technological advances. Renewable energy sources discussed in this book include solar, wind, biomass, fuel cells, hydropower, hydrogen, nuclear, and geothermal. This book comprehensively explains each of these sources, materials associated, technological development, economics and their impact on the environment. As the renewable energy sources are intermittent, they require specific power electronic converter to convert the generated power into useful form that can be used for utility. Hence, this book describes different forms of power converter such as AC-DC, DC-DC, DC-AC and AC-AC. Advanced power semiconductor devices, their gate drive and protection circuits, heat sink design and magnetic components for power converter are the additional topics included in this book. The topics coveredin these proceedings will have a large impact among academicians, researchers, policy makers, scientists, practitioners and students in fields of electronics and electrical engineering, energy engineering, automotive engineering, and so on.

Organic photovoltaics (OPV) are a new generation of solar cells with the potential to offer very short energy pay back times, mechanical flexibility and significantly lower production costs compared to traditional crystalline photovoltaic systems. A weakness of OPV is their comparative instability during operation and this is a critical area of research towards the successful development and commercialization of these 3rd generation solar cells. Covering both small molecule and polymer solar cells, Stability and Degradation of Organic and Polymer Solar Cells summarizes the state of the art understanding of stability and provides a detailed analysis of the mechanisms by which degradation occurs. Following an introductory chapter which compares different photovoltaic technologies, the book focuses on OPV degradation, discussing the origin and characterization of the instability and describing measures for extending the duration of operation. Topics covered include: Chemical and physical probes for studying degradation Imaging techniques Photochemical stability of OPV materials Degradation mechanisms Testing methods Barrier technology and applications Stability and Degradation of Organic and Polymer Solar Cells is an essential reference source for researchers in academia and industry, engineers and manufacturers working on OPV design, development and implementation.

Polymer solar cells have gained much attention as they offer a potentially economic and viable way of commercially manufacturing lightweight, flexible and low-cost photovoltaics. With contributions from leading scientists, Polymer Photovoltaics provides an international perspective on the latest research for this rapidly expanding field. The book starts with an Introduction to polymer solar cells and covers several important topics that govern their photovoltaic properties including the chemistry and the design of new light harvesting and interfacial materials and their structure-property relationship; the physics for photocurrent generation in the polymer solar cells; new characterization tools to study morphology effect on the property of donor/acceptor bulk heterojunctions; new device concepts such as tandem cells and semi-transparent cells and advanced roll-to-roll processes for large-scale manufacturing of polymer solar cells. Written by active researchers, the book provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in polymer solar cell technology for both researchers and students that are interested in this field.

Thermal-to-Electrical Energy Conversion, Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conversion and Concentrating Solar TechnologiesSelected papers from the 5th Forum on New Materials, part of CIMTEC 2010-12 th International Ceramics Congress and 5th Forum on New Materials, Montecatini Terme, Italy, June 13-18, 2010

Solar Cells and Light Management: Materials, Strategies and Sustainability provides an extensive review on the latest advances in PV materials, along with light management strategies for better exploiting the solar spectrum. Following a brief review of the current status of solar cells, the book discusses different concepts, principles and technologies for solar devices, starting with standard silicon cells and then covering organic-hybrid, DSSC, perovskite, quantum dots and nanostructured oxide solar cells. Other sections focus on light manipulation and spectral modification, materials for spectral conversion, and environmental and sustainably considerations. An emergy analysis, which is an extension of the Life Cycle Assessment methodology, is applied to the study of solar PV systems, thus allowing for effective integrated indicators. - Provides a comprehensive picture of light management strategies - Features the most recent advances in the field, including novel materials and advanced solar cell technologies - Presents a resource that is applicable to both new or experienced researchers in the field - Contains a section on environmental and sustainability issues

This book presents a comparison of solar cell materials, including both new materials based on organics, nanostructures and novel inorganics and developments in more traditional photovoltaic materials. It surveys the materials and materials trends in the field including third generation solar cells (multiple energy level cells, thermal approaches and the modification of the solar spectrum) with an eye firmly on low costs, energy efficiency and the use of abundant non-toxic materials.

Focusing on the cutting-edge technologies available in the field of photovoltaics, Solar Cell Nanotechnology explores the latest research and development activities related to organic, inorganic, and hybrid materials being used in solar cell manufacturing. Several chapters are dedicated to explaining the fundamentals of photovoltaics and nanomaterials utilized in the manufacturing of solar cells. Other essential subjects, such as microcontact printing, plasmonic light trapping, outdoor and indoor efficiency, luminescent solar concentrators, and photon management in photovoltaics, are comprehensively reviewed. Written for a broad audience, this is an essential book for engineers, nanotechnologists, and materials scientists.

This volume aims at bringing together the results of extensive research done during the last fifteen years on the interfacial photoelectronic properties of the inorganic layered semiconducting materials, mainly in relation to solar energy conversion. Significant contributions have been made both on the fundamental aspects of interface characteristics and on the suitability of the layered materials in photoelectrochemical (semiconductor/electrolyte junctions) and in solid state photovoltaic(Schottky and p-n junctions) cells. New insights into the physical and chemical characteristics of the contact surfaces have been gained and many new applications of these materials have been revealed. In particular, the basal plane surface of the layered materials shows low chemical reactivity and specific electronic behaviour with respect to isotropic solids. In electrochemical systems, the inert nature of these surfaces characterized by saturated chemical bonds has been recognized from studies on charge transfer reactions and catalysis. In addition, studies on the role of the d-band electronic transitions and the dynamics of the photogene rated charge carriers in the relative stability of the photoelectrodes of the transition metal dichalcogenides have deepened the understanding of the interfacial photoreactions. Transition metal layered compounds are also recognized as ideal model compounds for the studies Involving surfaces: photoreactions, adsorption phenomena and catalysis, scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy and epitaxial growth of thin films. Recently, quantum size effects have been investigated in layered semiconductor colloids.

While measuring the effectiveness of solar cell materials may not always be practical once a device has been created, solar cell modeling may allow researchers to obtain prospective analyses of the internal processes of potential materials prior to their manufacture. Advanced Solar Cell Materials, Technology, Modeling, and Simulation discusses the development and use of modern solar cells made from composite materials. This volume is targeted toward experts from universities and research organizations, as well as young professionals interested in pursuing different subjects regarding advanced solar cells.

Solar Cells and Energy Materials takes an in-depth look at the basics behind energy, solar energy as well as future and alternative energy materials. The author presents insights into the current state-of-the-art of solar cells, including their basic science, inorganic, organic and Perovskite-type cells. The author also gives an outlook into next generation energy materials and sources. The focus of this book is not only the presentation of available and developing energy materials, but their thorough examination and characterization. In addition to solar cell technology and the promising application of nanostructures like quantum dots, the author discusses the science and potential of nuclear fusion materials and other energy materials like hydrogen storage materials, BN nanomaterials, alternative fuel cells and SIC FET.

Global demand for low cost, efficient and sustainable energy production is ever increasing. Driven by recent discoveries and innovation in the science and technology of materials, applications based on functional materials are becoming increasingly important. Functional materials for sustainable energy applications provides an essential guide to the development and application of these materials in sustainable energy production.Part one reviews functional materials for solar power, including silicon-based, thin-film, and dye sensitized photovoltaic solar cells, thermophotovoltaic device modelling and photoelectrochemical cells. Part two focuses on functional materials for hydrogen production and storage. Functional materials for fuel cells are then explored in part three where developments in membranes, catalysts and membrane electrode assemblies for polymer electrolyte and direct methanol fuel cells are discussed, alongside electrolytes and ion conductors, novel cathodes, anodes, thin films and proton conductors for solid oxide fuel cells. Part four considers functional materials for demand reduction and energy storage, before the book concludes in part five with an investigation into computer simulation studies of functional materials.With its distinguished editors and international team of expert contributors, Functional materials for sustainable energy applications is an indispensable tool for anyone involved in the research, development, manufacture and application of materials for sustainable energy production, including materials engineers, scientists and academics in the rapidly developing, interdisciplinary field of sustainable energy. - An essential guide to the development and application of functional materials in sustainable energy production - Reviews functional materials for solar power - Focuses on functional materials for hydrogen production and storage, fuel cells, demand reduction and energy storage

This first comprehensive description of the most important material properties and device aspects closes the gap between general books on solar cells and journal articles on chalcogenide-based photovoltaics. Written by two very renowned authors with years of practical experience in the field, the book covers II-VI and I-III-VI2 materials as well as energy conversion at heterojunctions. It also discusses the latest semiconductor heterojunction models and presents modern analysis concepts. Thin film technology is explained with an emphasis on current and future techniques for mass production, and the book closes with a compendium of failure analysis in photovoltaic thin film modules. With its overview of the semiconductor physics and technology needed, this practical book is ideal for students, researchers, and manufacturers, as well as for the growing number of engineers and researchers working in companies and institutes on chalcogenide photovoltaics.

Providing up-to-date coverage of green nanomaterials and systems, this book provides comprehensive information on nanostructured materials, including their applications in energy and environmental sciences. The book focusses on photo-active nanostructured materials, from the basic understanding of solar energy activation to their sustainable preparation and applications in environmental remediation and fuel production from biomass and carbon dioxide. It also examines the health and environmental impacts of photo-catalyst nanomaterials. This book is an important reference for researchers and industrial chemists working in the fields of energy and environmental remediation.