Perform Online Research And Write A 2-Page Brief ✓ Solved

Perform Online Research And Write In Brief 15 2 Pages The Manufa

Perform online research and write in brief (1.5-2 pages) the manufacturing processes involved for any ONE of the following modern items (products): a. Cell phone/digital camera batteries b. Solar cells c. Military body armor d. Wind turbine blades e. Automobile engine block f. Fuel cells g. Lightweight bicycle frames h. Space telescope mirrors i. Cell phone displays j. Any engineering product of your choice. Highlight the ethical and professional responsibilities involved in the manufacturing process and the impact of the product on global, economic, environmental, and/or societal context.

Paper For Above Instructions

The advent of modern technology has paved the way for innovative products that have transformed various sectors. Among these products, solar cells stand out due to their significant contributions to renewable energy and sustainability. This paper discusses the manufacturing processes of solar cells and the ethical and professional responsibilities involved in their production, alongside the broader global, economic, environmental, and societal impacts.

Manufacturing Processes of Solar Cells

The manufacturing of solar cells primarily involves several key steps: wafer production, cell fabrication, and module assembly. Each step employs advanced technologies to ensure efficiency and quality.

1. Wafer Production

The first stage of solar cell manufacturing is the production of silicon wafers. Solar cells are predominantly made from crystalline silicon, which is derived from silicon dioxide through various processes. The most common method is the Czochralski process, where a seed crystal is inserted into molten silicon. As the crystal is slowly pulled from the melt, it forms a single crystal ingot. This ingot is subsequently sliced into thin wafers using a diamond wire saw, resulting in pieces that are a few hundred microns thick (Green et al., 2010).

2. Cell Fabrication

Once the wafers are ready, they undergo a series of processes to create functional solar cells. This includes doping, where materials such as phosphorus or boron are added to create n-type and p-type silicon. This doping process establishes an electric field that is crucial for energy conversion. The wafers are then subjected to a surface treatment process that enhances light absorption, typically through anti-reflective coatings. Finally, metal contacts are screen-printed onto the cells, facilitating the flow of electricity (Lavigne et al., 2017).

3. Module Assembly

The final step is the assembly of solar modules. Multiple solar cells are interconnected and encapsulated within protective layers to create a durable product that can withstand environmental conditions. This involves integrating a backing material, a protective front glass layer, and a framing system, enabling the modules to be mounted in various environments, from residential rooftops to large-scale solar farms (Moussa et al., 2015).

Ethical and Professional Responsibilities

The manufacturing of solar cells is not only a technical endeavor but also carries significant ethical and professional responsibilities. Manufacturers are expected to prioritize environmental sustainability by ensuring responsible sourcing of materials, minimizing waste, and reducing emissions during production. For example, the extraction of raw silicon often involves environmental degradation if not managed properly. Companies are responsible for implementing practices that mitigate these impacts by adopting cleaner production technologies and recycling materials.

Global, Economic, Environmental, and Societal Impact

Solar cells have far-reaching impacts across multiple spheres. Globally, they contribute to reducing reliance on fossil fuels, thereby addressing climate change and enhancing energy security. Economically, the solar industry has created numerous jobs and contributed to local economies, making renewable energy not only a sustainable option but a viable economic alternative as well (IRENA, 2020).

From an environmental perspective, solar cells help decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and their lifecycle impacts can be significantly lower than those of traditional energy sources. However, manufacturers must remain vigilant about the potential for e-waste as solar cells reach the end of their lifecycle. Responsible recycling and disposal programs are essential to address this issue.

Societally, solar energy democratizes access to electricity, especially in underserved communities. As the cost of solar technology continues to decline, it offers an opportunity for equitable energy access, letting more families benefit from clean energy solutions and improving their quality of life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the manufacturing processes of solar cells encompass a series of intricate steps that require technical expertise and ethical consideration. As solar technology continues to evolve, it is imperative for manufacturers to uphold their professional responsibilities, ensuring that their practices support environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social equity. The global shift towards renewable energy is not only a necessity for fighting climate change but also an opportunity to foster sustainable development across the world.

References

• Green, M. A., Emery, K., Hishikawa, Y., Warta, W., & Zou, J. (2010). Solar Cell Efficiency Tables (Version 34). Progress in Photovoltaics: Research and Applications, 18(2), 144-150.
• Lavigne, B., Dufour, G., & Masson, J. (2017). Advances in Crystalline Silicon Solar Cell Technology for Higher Photovoltaic Conversion Efficiency. Solar Energy, 157, 41-49.
• Moussa, A., Rezgui, Y., & Zmeureanu, R. (2015). Environmental Performance Assessment of Solar Cells. Sustainability, 7(1), 3080-3110.
• International Renewable Energy Agency. (2020). Renewable Power Generation Costs in 2019. IRENA, Abu Dhabi.
• Rao, A. M., & Wagh, S. (2016). A Review on Recent Developments in Solar Energy Technologies. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 56, 1236-1247.
• Hwang, J. Y., & Choi, W. K. (2018). A Review of the Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures of Solar Power. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 82, 719-727.
• Sharma, A., & Maji, A. (2018). Solar Energy: Environment, Economic, and Social Impacts. Journal of Cleaner Production.
• Wang, B. et al. (2019). A Review of Environmental and Economic Benefits of Solar Energy. Journal of Environmental Management, 250, 109474.
• Kalogirou, S.A. (2014). Solar Energy Engineering: Processes and Systems. Academic Press.
• Pan, J., Yang, Y., & Liao, G. (2020). Advances in Photovoltaic Technology, Environmental Impact Assessment, and Future Directions. Renewable Energy, 149, 1200-1212.