Triple-junction GaInP/GaAs/Ge solar cells-production status, qualification results and operational benefits

In 1999 Spectrolab completed design and qualification, and began production on the next generation of multijunction solar cells-a triple-junction GaInP/GaAs/Ge. With over 20% AM0 conversion efficiency at an operating temperature of 60/spl deg/C, this cell provides 8-11% more power than competing dua...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Granata, J.E., Ermer, J.H., Hebert, P., Haddad, M., King, R.R., Krut, D.D., Lovelady, J., Gillanders, M.S., Karam, N.H., Cavicchi, B.T.
Format: Conference Proceeding
Language:English
Subjects:
Epitaxial growth
Epitaxial layers
Gallium arsenide
Knee
Photovoltaic cells
Power system modeling
Production systems
Qualifications
System testing
Voltage
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Summary:In 1999 Spectrolab completed design and qualification, and began production on the next generation of multijunction solar cells-a triple-junction GaInP/GaAs/Ge. With over 20% AM0 conversion efficiency at an operating temperature of 60/spl deg/C, this cell provides 8-11% more power than competing dual-junction designs in GEO orbit after 15 years (6/spl times/10/sup 14/ 1-MeV electron equivalence). Spectrolab is currently qualifying an improved triple-junction cell capable of delivering over 22% AM0 conversion efficiency under these same conditions, with a beginning-of-life operating efficiency of 27%.
ISSN:0160-8371
DOI:10.1109/PVSC.2000.916099