Proton irradiation effects on NiO/ZnO visible-light-transparent solar cells for space applications

Abstract

In this study, the feasibility of in-space applications of a NiO/ZnO visible-light-transparent solar cell was investigated. The current density–voltage and external quantum efficiency measurements were conducted under air mass (AM) 0 conditions, and a short-circuit current density under AM 0 increased 2.6 times compared to that under AM 1.5. This significant increase is attributed to the absorption of only ultraviolet light with a wavelength of less than 400 nm, the irradiance of which is especially large in AM 0. Moreover, the degradation of photovoltaic properties of NiO/ZnO solar cells after 380 keV proton irradiation was evaluated to determine the possibility of long-term operation in space. No significant degradation was observed at a proton fluence of less than 3 × 1014 cm−2– 1 × 1015 cm−2. The NiO/ZnO solar cells showed the potential of a higher radiation tolerance under proton irradiation, as compared to Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) or GaAs-based solar cells.

Elucidation of electrical properties of undoped and Sb-induced Cu2SnS3 (CTS) thin films and degradation properties on CTS thin films and solar cells by intentional proton irradiation

“…The proton fluence ranged from 1 × 10 12 cm −2 to 3 × 10 15 cm −2 . This accelerated voltage of the proton was the same as that in our previous study on CIGS, 24,27) CZTS, 28) and NiO 29) related solar cells. The performance of the CTS thin films before and after proton irradiation was determined by Hall measurements using the van der Pauw technique (Toyo Corp., ResiTest 8300) with AC modulation of the magnetic field using an Au electrode as an ohmic contact.…”

“…The irradiation properties and degradation mechanisms of Si, 17,18) GaAs, 19,20) InP, 20,21) and CIGS [22][23][24][25][26][27] solar cells have been reported. Recently, the usage of nextgeneration solar cells, such as CZTS 28) and NiO, 29,30) has also been reported. Although understanding the radiation characteristics of various semiconductors and solar cells is essential, there have been no reports on the irradiation properties of CTS thin films and solar cells.…”

Fabrication of solar cells with CO2 gas sensing capabilities based on a NiO/ZnO p-n junction for developing self-powered gas sensors

“…Our group has previously shown using external quantum efficiency measurements that NiO/ ZnO p-n junction-based solar cells absorb only UV light with wavelengths shorter than 400 nm. 31) Therefore, this result indicates that the NiO/ZnO solar cells are a visible-lighttransparent device absorbing only UV light. The representative response in a 100% CO 2 atmosphere under AM1.5 is shown in Fig.…”

“…These deposition conditions were based on our previous work on NiO/ZnO solar cells. [28][29][30][31] After that, an Ag electrode was deposited as the front contact over a part of the NiO or NiO:Li layer by electron beam evaporation using a metal mask.…”

“…A NiO/ZnO p-n junction-based visible-lighttransparent solar cell was fabricated and reported in our previous study. [28][29][30][31] The NiO/ZnO solar cell only absorbs UV light and transmits visible and infrared light. Thus, these cells can be used in various applications, such as greenhouse panels, UV-blocking windows, and designed surfaces.…”