Easy and low-cost aqueous precipitation method to obtain Cu2ZnSn(S, Se)4 thin layers

Abstract

Abstract:An easy method to obtain kesterite Cu2ZnSn(Se1-x,Sx)4 (CZTSSe) solid solution as an absorber for thin film photovoltaic solar cells is discussed in this report. Particular emphasis is directed toward the procedure´s steps of the CZTSSe preparation, as well as its structure and properties. For the preparation of CZTSSe an easy, low-cost and sustainable aqueous precipitation method that included chemical transformations of metal selenite precipitate, its reduction to metal selenides and further crystallization of kesterite, is applied. This procedure is more viable as avoids the use of selenization treatment and thus generation of toxic vapors and employs water as a solvent instead of organic compounds. In addition, the proposed procedure is very attractive way of preparation for industrial large-scale fabrication of the most promising absorber candidates for photovoltaic thin film solar cells.Kesterite CZTSSe solid solution has been prepared and characterized in terms of chemical composition, structural and morphological transformations, as well as optical and electrical properties, confirming the viability and effectiveness of the applied process.The optimal electrical parameters obtained of the device are 21.5 mA/cm2, 532 mV, 42.8%., and 4.9% to short circuit current (Jsc), open circuit voltage (Voc), fill factor (FF), and efficiency (Eff.) respectively. Detailed description of each procedure steps and full characterization of the products, starting from as-prepared, intermediate and final compound is also exposed that could be very useful for any experimental scientist.2

Recent Progress in Solution‐Processed Copper‐Chalcogenide Thin‐Film Solar Cells

“…For CZTSSe‐based solar cells, this deep level Cu Zn antisite defect has been proposed be the reason for a low open‐circuit voltage ( V oc ) . To favor V Cu formation over Cu Zn , a Cu‐poor and Zn‐rich condition has been employed for the fabrication of CZTSSe . In addition to bulk defects, interface and grain boundaries (GBs) may also be detrimental to device efficiency.…”

Síntesis y deposición de semiconductores basados en Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 sobre laminados cerámicos para aplicaciones fotovoltaicas

“…"Easy and low-cost aqueous precipitation method to obtain Cu2ZnSn(S, Se)4 thin layers" R. Martí et al [132]. En este artículo se presenta el método de coprecipitación de selenitos metálicos de forma detallada y la obtención del material CZTSSe sobre vidrio sódico-cálcico obteniendo dispositivos fotovoltaicos con una eficiencia máxima de 4,9%.…”

“…El análisis también ha revelado un defecto de Se. Este defecto puede asociarse a la formación de óxidos e hidróxidos de los metales Cu y Zn además de los compuestos de óxido e hidróxidos de estaño formados a pH 6 [132].…”

“…A continuación, se describe cada uno de los componentes:  Sustrato: Los dispositivos de capas finas son muy versátiles a la hora de seleccionar el tipo del soporte o sustrato. Estos pueden tener distinta naturaleza química, como vítrea (vidrio sódicocálcico[132] o de boro silicato[85]), metálica (láminas de acero[133] y molibdeno flexible[134]), polimérica[135] y cerámica[87,136]. El sustrato seleccionado debe proporcionar una superficie adecuada para el depósito de todas las capas activas y, para ello, necesita cumplir una serie de requisitos.…”