No abstract

This paper presents two methods, namely those using noise and homogeneity measurements of a large area solar cells, for determining the local defects, which bring down efficiency and long reliability of single-crystal silicon solar cells. As a result of the non-uniformities (non-homogeneity) in the large junction area, local areas with lower built-in potentials at the junction lead to hot spots and reduced reliability. The two techniques can be used to give a precise description of the quality of the product technology. Correlations between noise and inhomogeneities for an ensemble of 30 silicon solar cell samples are given.

No abstract

No abstract

Concrete quality depends on various stress factors. The impedance spectroscopy method, as one of the non-destructive testing method group, was used to characterize concrete specimens and track the changes in the concrete spectrum after heat stress. The temperature range was between 0°C and 1200°C. Variances in the tan δ (f) and Im Z(f) or Re Z(f) of the specimens under investigation have been observed. The specimen quality has been described by means of the loss type prevailing in the material. The results of this study are expected to provide information about the correlation between the relative permittivity and changes in the structure for heat stress samples.

The paper is concerned with the technical aspects of the appraisal and retrofitting process of fire damaged reinforced concrete structures. The assessment of fire damaged structures is carried out along lines similar to those of the appraisal of existing structures. In practice, constructions are most often assessed by destructive tests in-situ and on core bore specimens. In addition to destructive tests, damaged structures are also assessed by non-destructive ones. The present paper shows the use of non-destructive methods of measurement using the acoustic-emission and impact-echo methods. Acoustic emission provides valuable data on the structural integrity of a material. This method has a significant potential to be used for in-situ monitoring and evaluation of the current state of structures. An impact-echo method is based on impact-generated stress waves that propagate through concrete and are reflected by internal flaws and external surfaces. Impact-echo can be used to determine the location and extent of flaws such as crack delamination, voids, honeycombing and deboning in plain, reinforced, and post-tensioned concrete structures. The paper presents a possible rehabilitation plan based on the potential results obtained by these non-destructive methods.

No abstract

No abstract