Large-Area Silicon-Film (TM) Panels and Solar Cells: Phase I Annual Technical Report, July 1995 - December 1995

This report describes AstroPower's success in improving its material and processing capabilities during the first phase of this 3-year contract through the Photovoltaic Manufacturing Technology (PVMaT) program. Key results include the demonstration of a 14.6%- efficient Silicon-Film(TM) solar cell. This laboratory result (1.0 cm2) provides the direction needed to develop and optimize continuous,in- line production processes. The continuous nature of the Silicon-Film(TM) sheet fabrication process is being extended into the solar-cell processing sequence. Plans are in place to make the wafer cleaning, gettering, and diffusion steps all continuous during the scope of this program.