Solar cells light-trapping structures

Abstract In solar applications microstructured polymer surfaces can be used as optically functional devices. Examples are antireflective surfaces, dayUghting, sun protection systems, concentrator photovoltaic modules and light trapping structures in organic solar cells. The examples and the principles of function of the respective microstmctures are described in detail. The suitability of different manufacturing methods is discussed. Two of them, ultraprecision machining and interference lithography are described. For the latter experimental results are shown. Finally, the opportunities and the risks of the shown approaches are discussed. 

Fig. 1 Buried contact solar cell structure, an important wafer-based commercial silicon cell technology. Features include surface texturing for light trapping, diffusions front and rear and the front current grid buried in laser grooves. (Courtesy of UNSW Centre for Photovoltaic Engineering Image Library.)...

Apart from anti-reflective applications, interference lithography has also been used to originate structures for light management (diffusers, microlenses, microprism arrays) in buildings and display applications for light trapping in solar cells and for artificial Lotus Effect structures. ... 

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