Optimization of low cost processes for thin c-Si solar cell production

As world population grows the total energy demanded increases. The energy from sources like the photovoltaic cells, emerges as a sustainable, environmentally clean and cost competitive option if produced on a large scale. The current trend in photovoltaic industry passes through increasing efficiency and reducing costs of the modules. A significant part of these costs originates in the semiconductor substrate material, therefore, the tendency is to reduce the thickness of the cells; however, the manufacturing processes need to be optimized. The aim is to implement in-line and contact-less techniques which increase productivity while reduce breakage yield. This work presents the results obtained towards that direction, particularly in the field of emitter formation and metallization.