Two-layer anti-reflection coatings with optimized sub-bandgap reflection for solar modules

Ian M. Slauch; Michael G. Deceglie; Timothy J. Silverman; Vivian E. Ferry

doi:10.1117/12.2323145

17 September 2018 Two-layer anti-reflection coatings with optimized sub-bandgap reflection for solar modules

Ian M. Slauch, Michael G. Deceglie, Timothy J. Silverman, Vivian E. Ferry

Proceedings Volume 10759, New Concepts in Solar and Thermal Radiation Conversion and Reliability; 1075911 (2018) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2323145
Event: SPIE Optical Engineering + Applications, 2018, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

The efficiency of a crystalline silicon solar module decreases as its operating temperature rises. Module cooling is possible via selective reflection of sub-bandgap photons so that they are not parasitically absorbed. Selecting from a library of common dielectrics, we numerically optimize the design of two-layer mirrors at the outer glass surface of a crystalline Si solar cell module. The mirrors are designed to maximize the annual energy yield of a module by both reflecting light below the bandgap and enhancing the transmission of light above the bandgap. Combined ray-tracing and finite element simulations determine the power output and temperature of the module over time. Since any two-layer mirror would replace a conventional single-layer glass anti-reflection coating on the module glass, we study the ability of a two-layer structure to improve on a single-layer coating. The best two-layer designs improve the annual energy yield over a module with a glass anti-reflection coating and reduce the module operating temperature.

Citation Download Citation

Ian M. Slauch, Michael G. Deceglie, Timothy J. Silverman, and Vivian E. Ferry "Two-layer anti-reflection coatings with optimized sub-bandgap reflection for solar modules", Proc. SPIE 10759, New Concepts in Solar and Thermal Radiation Conversion and Reliability, 1075911 (17 September 2018); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2323145

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available