How Are Solar Cells Constructed?
Solar power is an abundant energy source, but constructing the hardware for harnessing that power is a delicate process. The construction of solar cells is constantly evolving as scientists develop cheaper and more efficient manufacturing techniques.
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Solar Cells
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Solar cells are the basic units of photovoltaic power devices. These small wafer-like structures, also called PV cells, can be linked together to form larger modules and arrays of varying output power.
Making the Cell
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Most solar cells are made of silicon, which is sliced into disks that are polished and cut down to less than a centimeter thickness. This precise manufacturing process can be rather costly, even though silicon is one of the most abundant elements on earth.
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Semiconductor Layer
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The U.S. Department of Energy points out the most important parts of a solar cell are the semiconductor layers. This is where electric current is created. One layer of the material allows electrons into the circuit while a bottom layer sandwiches the cell together, completing the circuit.
Final Assembly
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Materials called dopants are added to the cell during construction to alter and refine the electrical charge. Flat, ribbon-like wires then connect the individual solar cells in a series.
Similar Manufacturing Techniques
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According to the Solar Panel website, an online renewable energy resource, the production of computers and memory chips have similar construction processes as solar cell manufacturing.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit solar cells image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com
