Numerical simulation study of high-efficiency silicon-based cell destined for photoelectrochemical wastewater treatment

Photoelectrochemical setups based on semiconductor photoelectrodes are known for their effectiveness in wastewater treatment, powered by solar energy, which is a renewable and sustainable source. These systems require semiconductor photocatalysts with excellent light-absorbing properties and high stability in aqueous environments. In this regard, silicon is highly investigated in solar cells thanks to its narrow bandgap, making it a potential solar harvester. Metal oxides stand as promising semiconductors, which are non-toxic and thermodynamically stable. In this work, two high-efficiency silicon-based cells have been investigated via Solar Cell Capacitance Simulator (SCAPS-1D) software. Thickness and doping concentration, of each layer, have been scrutinized for multiple buffer propositions to investigate the physical feasibility and optimal values allowing maximal light harvesting. It was found that the overall cell performance is influenced by extremely high doping concentrations for some layers. The effect of temperature was investigated as well at temperatures ranging from 300 to 350 K; it was discovered that the cell demonstrates great performance at the ambient temperature. A maximum solar efficiency of about 25.44% was calculated. Our findings build the path towards fabricating highly efficient Si-based solar cells for photoelectrochemical wastewater treatment.