Conversion process for passivating current shunting paths in amorphous silicon alloy solar cells

Abstract
A process is described which provides a simple, automatic means for quickly reducing the deleterious effects of shunts in completed thin-film solar cells. The method has been used to passivate current shunting defects in large area, mass produced solar cells made from amorphous silicon alloys. In the passivation process, photovoltaic devices are exposed to an electrochemical bath which selectively converts the top surface conducting oxide to a lesser conducting state at the vicinity of shunts. The process and its utility in repairing defects will be described.

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