"The Effects of a Non-Uniform Magnetic Field on Solar Cell Efficiency" by Jason A. Burdette

Date of Award

3-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

First Advisor

Timothy S. Wolfe, PhD

Abstract

Commercial-grade silicon-based solar cells have an efficiency in the 20-30% range. The addition of a non-uniform magnetic field manipulates the movement of charge carriers within the silicon of a solar cell. With this manipulation, one hypothesis is that the magnetic field increases the current produced by the solar cell which helps to increase the power and efficiency of the solar cell. Measuring a solar cell’s output current and voltage both with and without the presence of a non-uniform magnetic field tests this theory. Voltage multiplied by current gives output power, and to be calculated, efficiency needs maximum output power. The experiment shows slight increases in efficiency when factoring in the presence of a non-uniform magnetic field, and the results indicate further testing should be done.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENG-MS-24-M-004

Comments

A 12-month embargo was observed for posting this work on AFIT Scholar.

Distribution Statement A, Approved for Public Release. PA case number on file.

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