ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with concepts and materials related to solar cells of different types. It starts with a description of the working principles of conventional photovoltaic devices, followed by a discussion about the factors influencing their performance. In particular, the Shockley-Queisser efficiency limits are discussed for the case of the single p-n junction and tandem solar cells. Record efficiencies and architecture of typical multijunction solar cells are considered. This chapter continues with the description of the dye-sensitized, organic (polymer), and perovskite solar cells. Their working principles, requirements for the materials, and their unique properties are explained. Challenges on the way to develop the corresponding devices with high efficiencies and good stability are briefly discussed.
