A review of single-phase PFC topologies based on the boost converter

The need for solid-state ac-dc converters to improve power quality in terms of power-factor correction (PFC), reduced total harmonic distortion at input ac mains, and precisely regulated dc output have motivated the proposal of several topologies based on classical converters such as buck, boost, and buck-boost. Additionally, novel control techniques dedicated to PFC have also been introduced, motivating the manufacturing of commercial integrated circuits to impose sinusoidal currents in the front-end stage of switch-mode converters. Boost converters operating in continuous current mode (CCM) have become particularly popular because reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI) levels result from its utilization. Within this context, this work deals with a comprehensive review of some of the most relevant ac-dc single-phase boost converters for PFC applications. The evolution of the conventional boost converter is demonstrated in terms of improved characteristics achieved by other boost-based topologies. Besides, it seeks to establish a fast and concise guide on ac-dc boost converters to researchers and experts in power electronics by comparing the topologies.