Research Article
Optimization of Base Thickness in Response to Magnetic Fields: Towards a Robust Design for Vertical Solar Cells
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
1-8
Received:
11 December 2025
Accepted:
22 December 2025
Published:
16 January 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajmp.20261501.11
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Abstract: The article discusses the study of the impact of the magnetic field (B) on the performance of a series vertical junction solar cell operating in static conditions and under polychromatic illumination. These solar cells consist of several non-monolithic junctions connected in series and illuminated from the edges. The theoretical approach is based on solving the continuity equation for excess minority charge carriers in the base (p-zone). This equation explicitly incorporates the influence of the magnetic field via the diffusion coefficient (D (B)), which is inversely proportional to 1+(μ. B) 2 (magnetoresistance phenomenon). The solution to the continuity equation is used to derive expressions for photocurrent (Jph), photovoltage (Vph), power (Pmax), form factor (FF), and conversion efficiency (η). The results clearly show that maximum power (Pmax) and conversion efficiency (η) decrease as the magnetic field increases (B). This effect is attributed to the Lorentz force, which deflects the trajectory of photogenerated carriers, significantly increasing their recombination rate before they reach the junction, thereby reducing the photocurrent. The study mainly shows that the optimum thickness (Hopt) of the base offering maximum power decreases as the magnetic field increases. This decrease is due to the fact that the magnetic field deflects the trajectory of minority carriers (electrons) towards the lateral faces of the cell. Therefore, for better carrier collection, the thickness of the base must be much thinner. The form factor (FF) is only very slightly affected by the magnetic field.
Abstract: The article discusses the study of the impact of the magnetic field (B) on the performance of a series vertical junction solar cell operating in static conditions and under polychromatic illumination. These solar cells consist of several non-monolithic junctions connected in series and illuminated from the edges. The theoretical approach is based o...
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Mountaga Boiro
