3D Mathcad Simulation of Photogenerated Current Density in c-Si Solar Cells Under Multispectral Illumination: Combined Impact of Transverse Magnetic Field and Base Thickness

This three-dimensional numerical study investigates the combined effects of magnetic fields, carrier collection velocity at the p-n junction, and base thickness on the photogenerated current density in bifacial polycrystalline silicon solar cells. The model uses a columnar geometry centered on a single grain with front, rear, or dual-side illumination, representing realistic configurations of modern photovoltaic systems. The results demonstrate that the applied magnetic field reduces carrier mobility, degrading transport properties by lowering both the diffusion coefficient and diffusion length, which impacts the overall efficiency of the solar cell. Carrier collection velocity plays a crucial role as a key parameter, determining the transition between open-circuit (zero current) and short-circuit (maximum current) operating modes, and is highly sensitive to changes in the cell structure. Additionally, the base thickness significantly influences carrier collection efficiency: thinner bases show better performance under magnetic field conditions, as they reduce the path length for carrier diffusion. Bifacial illumination enhances the overall photocurrent by utilizing both the front and rear surfaces of the cell, but remains sensitive to the combined effects of magnetic fields, recombination, and geometry. This study provides valuable insights into how the physical configuration of solar cells can be optimized, suggesting that adjusting the base thickness and controlling recombination mechanisms can significantly improve the performance of photovoltaic systems in environments disturbed by magnetic fields or other external factors. The findings are relevant for designing more efficient bifacial solar cells in real-world applications.