SPECTRAL RESPONSE AND CONVERSION EFFICIENCY OF P-N JUNCTIONS
Abstract
The concept of the thermal photovoltaic energy converter is introduced and compared with the thermoelectric and thermionic converters. The general efficiency expression was developed. In terms of device design, the collection efficiency should be optimized. The theoretical expressions for the collection efficiency and junction depth for maximum collection efficiency under monochromatic radiation were developed and solved by means of a digital computer. A series of p-n, p-i, and p-i-n diode converters were fabricated according to the theoretical principles developed. The efficiency of the best converter was investigated under varying intensity and wavelength. The converter obeyed the low-level injection theory at all intensities measured. It was found that efficiency increased with intensity up to the limit of the radiation source. The maximum value obtained was 4.23 percent at 282 mw/sq cm. Band-limited light improved efficiency at a given intensity. Based on the experimental results conversion efficiencies up to 30 percent at intensities on the order of 10/watts/sq cm. are predicted. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 20, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0285461
Entities
People
- Bruce Daniels Weslock
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology