Materials Challenges

This book will provide an authoritative reference on the various aspects of materials science that will impact the next generation of photovoltaic (PV) module technology. The materials emphasis will bring a fresh perspective to the literature and will highlight the many issues that are often buried in other texts where the solution to materials challenges can be crucial in developing a new PV technology. The emphasis of the book will be on the range of thin film PV materials. Thin film PV is growing more rapidly that crystalline silicon and although only 10% of the current market could dominate in the longer term. This book will address the fundamental aspects of PV solar cell materials and give a comprehensive description of each of the major thin film materials either in research or in production. Particular attention will be given to the key materials drivers of solar conversion efficiency, long term stability, materials costs and materials sustainability. The book will be essential reading for materials scientists, energy technologists and all those involved in solid-state physics.