Solar cells, also known as photovoltaic (PV) cells, are the heart of the solar panel. They are made of silicon, which is a material that has a unique property of producing an electrical current when exposed to sunlight.
Let’s explore the materials used in solar panel manufacturing and how they work together to capture the sun’s energy. Most solar panels are made from pure silicon (or other semiconductor material), the second most abundant element on Earth. Silicon enables the photovoltaic effect, which efficiently converts sunlight into clean energy.
Here are the common parts of a solar panel explained: Silicon solar cells convert the Sun's light into electricity using the photovoltaic effect. Soldered together in a matrix-like structure between the glass panels, silicon cells interact with the thin glass wafer sheet and create an electric charge.
The backsheet of a solar panel is a layer of material that protects the back of the panel from moisture and other environmental elements. It is usually made of a material such as polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) that is resistant to water and UV light.
They are made of silicon, which is a material that has a unique property of producing an electrical current when exposed to sunlight. Solar cells are usually made of either monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon, both of which have different advantages and disadvantages.
Aluminum is also used make the metal frames that surround solar panels. These frames protect the panel from environmental elements and are used to mount the panels.