Performance Optimization of Solar Cells Based on Heterojunctions with Cu2O: Numerical Analysis

A numerical analysis for performance optimization of solar cells based on heterojunctions with copper oxide (Cu2O) is performed. The equations given by the single-diode model for solar cells with the Lambert W-function, experimental data from the literature, and an adequate fitting procedure are used. A model for the light-generated current density is proposed. The results indicate a power conversion efficiency of 19.29% without any optical confinement structure to such an ideal solar cell. The parameters of the solar cell are obtained from the analysis of the total current density on voltage (J–V) experimental characteristics. The influence of the series resistance, shunt resistance, ideality factor, product between the mobility and the lifetime of electron, cell temperature, and thickness of the absorber layer on the maximum output power and power conversion efficiency is analyzed, aiming to be used for the design and optimization of these solar cells.