Morehead State University
Electroluminescence Apparatus
Institution
Morehead State University
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Kent Price
Abstract
Solar cells provide clean renewable energy. The goal of our research is to advance our understanding of the efficiencies of solar cells. We work with cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells, which are a viable low-cost alternative to standard silicon cells, due to their lower manufacturing costs. In order to work toward Kentucky’s goal of a new economy, we must move forward to newer, cleaner technologies such as these. The intent of this presentation is to show the experimental setup and preliminary data from the apparatus we constructed to measure the electro-luminescence (EL) from the solar cells. Electroluminescence is the property of a substance to emit light when current is passed through it. CdTe solar cells exhibit EL. We have examined the link between the solar cells EL and energy conversion efficiency; these results aid in the understanding of CdTe solar cell behavior.
Electroluminescence Apparatus
Solar cells provide clean renewable energy. The goal of our research is to advance our understanding of the efficiencies of solar cells. We work with cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells, which are a viable low-cost alternative to standard silicon cells, due to their lower manufacturing costs. In order to work toward Kentucky’s goal of a new economy, we must move forward to newer, cleaner technologies such as these. The intent of this presentation is to show the experimental setup and preliminary data from the apparatus we constructed to measure the electro-luminescence (EL) from the solar cells. Electroluminescence is the property of a substance to emit light when current is passed through it. CdTe solar cells exhibit EL. We have examined the link between the solar cells EL and energy conversion efficiency; these results aid in the understanding of CdTe solar cell behavior.