Reverse Current Blocking Diodes for Flexible Solar Array Protection

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Abstract:

A unique Solar Cell Blocking Diode for use on solar panels is described. The device has the physical characteristics of a solar cell and the electrical properties of conventional diodes currently used for solar array reverse current isolation and protection. This combination of physical characteristics and electrical properties permits mounting of the diode on the panel surface in series with solar cells, and is particularly useful for flexible rollup solar arrays. The diode junction is diffused into a 1 x 2 cm, 8 mil thick, P-doped silicon blank. Nominal inverse voltage standoff characteristics of 140 volts at 1 mA leakage have been achieved with 20 ohm-cm base resistivity, 6 micrometer diffused junctions, and heavy silicon monoxide layers for surface passivation. Typical forward voltage drop at 0.33.0 amperes are of the order of 0.81.2 volts. Conventional diodes exhibit nominal inverse voltage standoff characteristics of 100 volts at 25 microamperes leakage, and typical forward voltage drop of 0.81.0 volt at 0.33.0 amperes. Author

Author(s):
Levy, E., Jr. ; Mcgrath, R. J.
Author Organization(s):
HUGHES AIRCRAFT CO EL SEGUNDO CA SPACEAND COMMUNICATIONS GROUP
Descriptive Note:
Final rept. 2 Apr 73-14 Mar 75
Pagination:
0184

Security Markings

DOCUMENT & CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY

Distribution:
Approved For Public Release

RECORD

Collection: TR
Identifying Numbers
Report Number(s):
SCG-50121R, AFAPL-TR-75-23
Contract/Grant Number(s):
F33615-73-C-2060
Task Number(s):
314519
Project Number(s):
AF-3145
Monitor Series:
TR-75-23, AFAPL
 Subject Terms
Joint Capability Areas:
JCA_5_Command and Control; JCA_5.3_Planning; JCA_5.3.4_Develop Courses of Action; JCA_5.3.5_Analyze Courses of Action; JCA_5.3.3_Develop Strategy; JCA_3.2_Engagement; JCA_3_Force Application; JCA_3.2.1_Kinetic Means; JCA_4.2_Supply; JCA_4.2.3_Manage Global Supplier Networks; JCA_1_Force Support; JCA_6_Net Centric; JCA_6.3.3_Spectrum Management; JCA_1.2_Force Preparation; JCA_1.2.5_Lessons Learned; JCA_5.5.3_Establish Metrics; JCA_5.5_Direct; JCA_6.1.3_Switching and Routing; JCA_6.3_Net Management; JCA_1.2.3_Educating; JCA_6.1.2_Wireless Transmission
Modernization Areas:
Microelectronics; Space
Communities of Interest:
Advanced Electronics
Descriptor(s):
*SEMICONDUCTOR DIODES, *SOLAR CELLS, *PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT, *SOLAR PANELS, MIRRORS, VOLTAGE, SEMICONDUCTORS, SILICON, LEAKAGE(ELECTRICAL), DIRECT CURRENT, IONIZING RADIATION, FLEXIBLE STRUCTURES
Field(s)/Group(s):
Electrical and Electronic Equipment, Electric Power Production and Distribution
Keyword(s):
*Blocking diodes, Reverse current, Mesa structures
Report Date:
1975 Apr 01