The book is devoted to the spatial characterization of solar cells and PV modules. It is
written both as a monograph as well as a succinct guide for the state-of-the-art spatial
characterization techniques and approaches. Amongst the approaches discussed are visual imaging
electro- and photo-luminescence imaging thermography and light beam induced mapping
techniques. Emphasis is given on the luminescence image acquisition and interpretation due to
its great potential. Characterization techniques are accompanied by simulation tools. The
contents are aimed at a readership of students and senior researchers in R&D as well as
engineers in industry who are newcomers to the spatial characterization of either solar cells
or PV modules. The concepts and approaches presented herein are based on but not limited to
case studies of real thin-film PV devices. Key features: ¿ Review of spatially resolved
characterization techniques and accompanying SPICE simulations in photovoltaics ¿ Use of
spatially resolved characterization techniques and their combinations for the identification of
inhomogeneities in small area CdTe and dye-sensitized solar cells ¿ Case studies of
electroluminescence imaging of commercial PV modules (c-Si CIGS CdTe a-Si tandem and triple
junction thin-film-Si) The contents are aimed at a readership of students and senior
researchers in R&D as well as engineers in industry who are newcomers to the spatial
characterization of either solar cells or PV modules. The concepts and approaches presented
herein are based on but not limited to case studies of real thin-film PV devices. Key features:
¿ Review of spatially resolved characterization techniques and accompanying SPICE simulations
in photovoltaics ¿ Use of spatially resolved characterization techniques and their combinations
for the identification of inhomogeneities in small area CdTe and dye-sensitized solar cells ¿
Case studies of electroluminescence imaging of commercial PV modules (c-Si CIGS CdTe a-Si
tandem and triple junction thin-film-Si)
