On the Scalar Scattering Theory for Thin-Film Solar Cells

Nano-textured interfaces between two media of different refractive indices scatter light. The angular distribution and the intensity of the scattered light are deter- mined by the geometry of the nano-textures and the difference of the refractive indices of the two media. Thin-film silicon solar cells (TFSSC), which convert sunlight directly...

Inductive and Wireless Energy Transfer in Residential Applications

The thesis considers contactless electromagnetic energy transfer, applied to residential and office environments. The objective is to investigate and design a (partially) contactless residential energy distribution network system for multiple electrical devices with a highly improved end-user flexibility. A special focus is system efficiency.

Long term performance of gas-insulated switchgear operating under tropical conditions

For the past two decades, electricity utilities have struggled to provide high quality electrical power to their customers while keeping on spending effectively the expenses for operating and maintaining the power system. Unfortunately, under tropical conditions, operation circumstances affect the equipment so that either its lifetime is cut...

Growth and Characterization of Thin Film Nanocrystalline Silicon Materials and Solar Cells

The need for electrical energy is growing fast as a result of the expanding world population and economic activities. On top of this the energy need of each individual is also growing. At present the growth in energy demand is not matched by the growth in energy generation because of insufficient energy production. This energy gap therefore...

An Intelligent Algorithm for Smart Grid Protection Applications

Atomistic Models of Amorphous Semiconductors

Crystalline silicon is probably the best studied material, widely used by the semiconductor industry. The subject of this thesis is an intriguing form of this element namely amorphous silicon. It can contain a varying amount of hydrogen and is denoted as a-Si:H. It completely lacks the neat long range order of the crystal, yet its structure is...

Manipulating the Hydrogenated Amorphous Silicon Growing Surface

Our modern lifestyle is currently fueled by two billion years of accumulated energy reserves. For several years now there has been a strong rise in research interest and more recently also implementation of renewable energy sources in the European Union. Driving factors for these developments are the increasing awareness of global warming in our...

Novel Topology of Saturated-core Fault Current Limiter

Increasing levels of fault currents in utility grids are expected to result in mechanical and thermal overstresses of different power system components. To cope with these increased levels, expensive upgrades and replacements of currently employed Circuit Breakers might be required in the near future. Fault Current Limiters (FCLs) are expected...

Epoxy Based Nanodielectrics for High Voltage DC Applications: Synthesis, Dielectric Properties and Space Charge Dynamics

Main goal of the research described in this PhD thesis was to determine the influences of filler size, material and distribution on the DC breakdown strength, permittivity and space charge behaviour of nanocomposites. This should lay the groundwork for tailored insulation materials for HVDC applications. Examples for this are medical and...

Distributed Power Flow Controller

In modern power systems, there is a great demand to control the power flow actively. Power flow controlling devices (PFCDs) are required for such purpose, because the power flow over the lines is the nature result of the impedance of each line. Due to the control capabilities of different types of PFCDs, the trend is that mechanical PFCDs are...

Hydrogenated amorphous silicon solar cells deposited from silane diluted with hydrogen