Interfacial phenomena in solar materials

This paper provides a short review of the fundamental features of the general classes of interfaces and interfacial thermodynamics. The energetics and structures of interfaces are reviewed in the context of applications of current understanding of interfacial phenomena to specific materials in several solar technologies. Overviews are presented for interfacial energetics, compositional and chemical analysis of interfaces, and the structure of interfaces and representative illustrations are provided. Numerous examples of interfacial phenomena pertinent to solar materials interface problems are included, and solar materials interface problems are discussed and summarized in a general way. Problems or concerns are tabulated for interfaces in specific solar systems or components, e.g., reflectors, polymers, absorbers, collectors, PV cells, storage systems and heat transfer materials.