Advanced Processing Techniques Used for the Development of Dual‐Junction Monolithic Interconnected Modules

Monolithic interconnected modules (MIMs) are large area, high voltage photovoltaic devices, realized through solar cell segments which are series‐connected via interconnection trenches during wafer processing. In the presented research MIM technology is combined with the concept of multi‐junction solar cells in order to increase efficiency. A lattice‐matched and a metamorphic dual‐junction (2J‐) MIM structure are introduced. Furthermore, photovoltaic area losses due to segment interconnection are reduced due to optimized processing and the usage of advanced processing techniques. As a combined result of the research, a metamorphic 2J‐MIM with a maximum efficiency of η = 26.0% at a concentration of 500 suns is presented.