Fourier light scattering model for treating textures deeper than the wavelength.

We apply a Fourier-scattering model to describe light scattering in solar cells with textured surfaces. For the size and inclination angle of typical micro-textures, scattering may occur into large angles. This makes the model prone to paraxial errors. We present a non-paraxial formulation and discuss the transition from the domain of refraction at large facets to scattering at small features.

Comparison and optimization of randomly textured surfaces in thin-film solar cells.

Using rigorous diffraction theory we investigate the scattering properties of various random textures currently used for photon management in thin-film solar cells. We relate the haze and the angularly resolved scattering function of these cells to the enhancement of light absorption. A simple criterion is derived that provides an explanation why certain textures operate more beneficially than others. Using this criterion we propose a generic surface profile that outperforms the available substrates. This work facilitates the understanding of the effect of randomly textured surfaces and provides guidelines towards their optimization.