Monocrystalline modules are solar panels put together using single cells or single-crystal silicon. Its composition allows the electrons to freely move compared to a multi-crystal layout. For that reason, monocrystalline panels provide higher efficiency compared to multicrystalline modules.
Monocrystalline cells originate from a silicon ingot coming from a pure silicon crystal, which is similar to a semiconductor. The cylindrical silicon is divided into wafers that form the cells. To maximize cell use, the wafers are cut into the shape of an octagon. Moreover, they have uniform colors.
How Do They Work?
When sunlight reaches that monocrystalline panel, the cells take in the energy and undergo a complex process to create electrical power. The field created consists of current and voltage, which generates electrical power. This power is then used to power appliances or devices that work on DC (Direct Current). Moreover, the energy can be transformed into an AC (Alternating Current) with an inverter.
Features
Solar monocrystalline panels are materials that feature photovoltaic properties. Two other types also exhibit PV properties, such as thin-film panels or polycrystalline cells. However, monocrystalline counterparts have better features compared to these two other panel types. Below are its features:
- The pattern of the cells is in pyramid form, offering greater surface area, absorbing more sunlight, therefore, producing more energy.
- The upper surface has phosphorus that helps create an electrically negative orientation, while its bottom part has an electrically positive orientation. As a result, it creates an electric field.
- The solar cells are covered with a chemical compound (silicon nitride) to minimize reflection and increase absorption.
- Metal conductors on the cells collect the electricity generated.
With the features mentioned above, the advantage of having monocrystalline solar panels is their ability to convert solar power into electrical energy with greater efficiency. Moreover, these panels can last for a maximum of 30 years, and they exhibit more resistance to heat.
Applications
- Monocrystalline panels can generate more electricity and apply to both rural and urban solar rooftops.
- These solar panels are best used on larger scales (e.g., vast uncultivable land)
- They can be helpful for both commercial and residential buildings.
- They can be beneficial in giving light to gardens.
- These can power homes in rural areas.
- These modules are best for lighting the streets as independent panels.
- Smaller panels producing 5 to 25 W can charge laptops, phones, and cameras.
- Panels having 40 to 130 W can power appliances like microwave ovens and refrigerators.