Due to the unique microstructure of hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon oxide (nc-SiO:H), the optoelectronic properties of this material can be tuned over a wide range, which makes it adaptable to different solar cell applications. In this work, the authors review the material properties of nc-SiO:H and the versatility of its applications in different types of solar cells. The review starts by introducing the growth principle of doped nc-SiO:H layers, the effect of oxygen content on the material properties, and the relationship between optoelectronic properties and its microstructure.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFOpen Hardware-based microcontrollers, especially the Arduino platform, have become a comparably easy-to-use tool for rapid prototyping and implementing creative solutions. Such devices in combination with dedicated front-end electronics can offer low-cost alternatives for student projects, slow control and independently operating small-scale instrumentation. The capabilities can be extended to data taking and signal analysis at mid-level rates.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIn silicon heterojunction solar cell technology, thin layers of hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) are applied as passivating contacts to the crystalline silicon (c-Si) wafer. Thus, the properties of the a-Si:H is crucial for the performance of the solar cells. One important property of a-Si:H is its microstructure which can be characterized by the microstructure parameter R based on Si─H bond stretching vibrations.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Synthetic mesh material is of great importance for surgical incisional hernia repair. The physical and biochemical characteristics of the mesh influence mechanical stability and the foreign body tissue reaction. The influence on bacterial infections, however, remains ill-defined.
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