4power, LLC

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Arthur J Pitera

Eugene A Fitzgerald

John J Hennessy

Steven A Ringel

Andrew C Malonis

In various embodiments, an array of discrete solar cells with associated devices such as bypass diodes is formed over a single substrate.

High-efficiency solar-cell arrays with integrated devices and methods for forming them

In various embodiments, an array of discrete solar cells with associated devices such as bypass diodes is formed over a single substrate. In one instance, a method of forming a solar-cell array with integrated bypass diodes comprising: providing a semiconductor substrate, a first cell comprising a SiGe p-n junction or SiGe p-i-n junction, one or more second cells each comprising a III-V semiconductor p-n junction or III-V semiconductor p-i-n junction; forming a bypass diode that is discrete and laterally separate from its associated solar cell and comprises an unremoved portion of the first cell, the formation comprising removing an unremoved portion of the one or more second cells thereover.

A method and structure for forming semiconductor structures using tensilely strained gettering layers. The method includes forming a donor wafer comprising a tensilely strained gettering layer disposed over a substrate, and at least one material layer disposed over the tensilely strained gettering layer. Additionally, the donor wafer may possess a particle-confining region proximate the tensilely strained layer. The method also includes introducing particles into the donor wafer to a depth below the surface, and accumulating at least some particles within the tensilely strained gettering layer. Next, the method includes initiating a cleaving action so as to separate at least one of the material layers form the substrate. The tensilely strained gettering layer may accumulate particles and/or point defects and reduce the implantation dose and thermal budget required for cleaving.

Growing community of inventors

Chestnut Hill, MA, United States of America

Arthur J Pitera