Chapter 7: Solar (Photovoltaic) Cells

This chapter initially describes semiconductors and classifies them as critical materials. Different types of solar all are covered. Hence, silicon-based cells, copper gallium indium diselenide cells, perovskite-based cells as well as dye-sensitised cells are described. Quantum dots are also covered in this chapter. The importance of Taiwan for manufacture of semiconductors by photolithography is stressed, as is its relation with China. The complex web of international companies that manufacture silicon chips is outlined, as is extreme ultraviolet lithography for production of advanced silicon chips that are essential for development of artificial intelligence. Supply chains and geopolitical issues for semiconductors are highlighted with reference to the network of worldwide companies involved in this technology. Production of green hydrogen from solar cells and the differences between green, grey and blue hydrogen are summarised.