Analysis of solar cell experiment results

How is the efficiency of a solar cell calculated?

The efficiency (\ (\upeta\)) of a solar cell is calculated as \$\upeta =\frac {Vmp*Imp} {S*Ar}$. The ratio of the useful output power to the incident power of the solar radiation is used to determine the efficiency.

What are the characteristics of a solar cell?

The solar cell has four corners with defects, and the cutting is a vertical quarter cut (as shown in the Fig. 2 ). The special characteristic of monocrystalline silicon solar cell causes the upper and lower cell’s area will be slightly smaller than 1/4 of the normal solar cell. At the same time, the solar cells are set in series.

Does uneven radiation affect the performance of a solar cell?

As we know, under concentrated condition, the incident energy flow density on the surface of the solar cell will be significantly increased, and the influence of the uneven radiation on the performance of the solar cell will be gradually highlighted ( Jakhar et al., 2016 ).

What is the spectral distribution of solar cells at 35 km?

This is the first report on measurements and analysis of solar spectrum at such a wide range of altitudes, and we find that the spectral distribution at 35 km is almost equivalent to that of AM0, which supplies a suitable AM0 Standard solar cell calibration strategy with high altitude balloon flights.

What happens if a solar cell is shaded?

When a single solar cell is shaded, the current flowing through the entire string drops. Consequently, each PV cell in the string operates at the current determined by the shaded cell. The conduction of diode depends on the amount of shading and the I–V curve shape of the shaded cell.

What device is used to measure solar irradiance?

On the top of the bracket, a pyranometer is installed at 28° of inclination to get the readings of varying solar irradiance. Two K-type thermocouples are attached at the back side of the module to get the reading of shaded and unshaded cell during the experiment.