Diagnostics of large-area solar cell homogeneity using LBIV method

The paper refers about a possibility to check recombination rate distribution over the area of power (large-area) solar cells from measured values of open circuit voltage V_OC using local irradiation by monochromatic light a suitable wavelengths (LBIV - Light Beam Initiated Voltage). The method can give information both about recombination centres distribution in large-area solar cells and surface recombination rate at the antireflection coating. From V_OC distribution, also position and extent of local defects can also be determined. The method can be used to investigate the influence of technology on characteristics of solar cells as an in-process checking with the aim of increasing efficiency and reliability of solar cells.