We have seen solar panels shrink from the huge blocks we placed atop roofs to thin films that can be fitted into gadgets like smartphones. However, for a long time, the greatest challenge in solar technology was improving the efficiency of the panels. Fortunately, a new technology known as vapor transport deposition system is making voltage increase in panels possible.

Solar panels film are layered with millions of solar cells responsible for converting sunlight into electrons. It is these electrons that are further channeled into a remote battery to produce electricity. When sunlight hits the panels, the atoms within the solar cells expand. The challenge scientists faced is increase voltage production by filling up the gaps atoms left behind when breaking off.

New technology boosts cell voltage production

Through a technology known as vapor transport deposition system, solar experts can now make the necessary adjustments to solar cells to facilitate more voltage production. Here is how it works.

The new technology is an improvement in the available thin-film technology used in solar panels. Thin films are a composition of millions of crystal per square inch, providing a large surface area for the capture and absorption of sunlight. Through vapor transport deposition system, these crystalline grains can be adjusted as they expand and grow from absorbing sunlight.

The adjustment is made by adding smaller elements within the thin-film crystals at optimum temperatures. Once the atoms in solar cells are active and adjusted, they undergo a phenomenon known as doping. It is this state of doping that allows for an increase in conductivity and hence improved voltage production.

Scientists in solar technology have reported a voltage increase of up to 0.8 per atom, from a previous 0.5 volts. For doping of atoms in solar cells to be effective, scientists are using a special material known as Cadmium Telluride. Cadmium telluride absorbs light faster and more efficiently facilitating the 0.8 increase in voltage per cell.

Vapor transport deposition system is a breakthrough in solar technology as we are going to see a lot of positive outcomes from it. It means our phones will run longer on solar charge and we may never experience insufficient electricity when powering our homes. On a large scale, this slight improvement could translate to increased production of electricity for cities via the large-scale power grids.

Final Remarks

Solar panel films will produce more electricity in future, thanks to vapor transport deposition system. The technology is still in the infancy stage but it should not be long before it shows up in our daily lives.