Characterization of III-V Solar Cells and Modules

The precise determination of the performance data of photovoltaic components plays an important role in both research and development and in the production of III‑V solar cells and modules. The CalLab PV Cells at Fraunhofer ISE precisely measures all types of solar cells according to international standards.

 

A wide range of methods are available for characterizing III‑V multi-junction solar cells:

• Spectral response of multi-junction solar cells with up to six sub-cells
• Calibrated measurement of current-voltage (I-V) characteristics
  • Multi-source simulators (three- and six-source simulators) for characterization under defined spectral conditions (AM1.5g, AM1.5d, AM0, indoor spectra, etc.)
  • Spectrometric characterization to quantify the behavior under variable spectrum
  • Four-source flash simulator for spectrally adapted characterization of concentrator solar cells (up to 1500-fold concentrated solar radiation)
  • Laser measuring station with laser light sources (809 nm: 50 W, 1305 nm: 12 W, 1455 nm: 12 W, 1530 nm: 12 W)

In addition, we work on the characterization of concentrator modules and systems. Through our participation in IEC TC 82 WG 7, we have helped to shape the development of international standards for concentrator photovoltaics, as well as the determination of the performance of hybrid PV/CPV modules. Our test facility for CPV modules with a tracking unit on the roof of Fraunhofer ISE allows the standardized characterization and power rating of CPV modules. An indoor laboratory measurement set-up also offers the possibility of conducting measurements on concentrator modules in the laboratory. The measurement set-up generates sun-like, parallel light with the help of a parabolic mirror.