Multi‐bandgap, photonic energy conversion is under investigation for nearly every class of photovoltaic materials, with monolithic, series‐connected device structures being the preferred mode of implementation. For TPV energy conversion systems, such an approach represents the next wave in TPV converter advancement. In this paper, we focus on a rigorous analysis of series‐connected, multi‐bandgap, tandem (SCMBT) converter structures according to Kirchhoff’s circuit laws. A general formulation is presented, followed by an application of the general formulation to a typical, semi‐realistic model for well‐behaved, p‐n junction, photovoltaic devices. Using results generated from a computer code written in Visual Basic, we then present example calculations for SCMBT TPV converters with two subcells, for a TPV system utilizing a blackbody radiator operating at 954°C (1750°F). A comparison of the results obtained using the rigorous analysis, with those obtained by using the commonly adopted subcell‐photocurrent‐matching design rule, is discussed in detail. An output power density increase of ∼ 5% is realized in the solution determined by the rigorous analysis, as compared to that obtained with the subcell‐photocurrent‐matching rule. Additional interesting, non‐intuitive results are also highlighted.
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30 November 2004
THERMOPHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATION OF ELECTRICITY: Sixth Conference on Thermophotovoltaic Generation of Electricity: TPV6
14-16 June 2004
Freiburg (Germany)
Research Article|
November 30 2004
A Rigorous Analysis of Series‐Connected, Multi‐Bandgap, Tandem Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) Energy Converters
M. W. Wanlass;
M. W. Wanlass
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), 1617 Cole Boulevard, Golden, CO
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D. S. Albin
D. S. Albin
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), 1617 Cole Boulevard, Golden, CO
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AIP Conf. Proc. 738, 462–470 (2004)
Citation
M. W. Wanlass, D. S. Albin; A Rigorous Analysis of Series‐Connected, Multi‐Bandgap, Tandem Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) Energy Converters. AIP Conf. Proc. 30 November 2004; 738 (1): 462–470. https://doi.org/10.1063/1.1841925
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