Influence of Selenization Pressure on Properties of CIGS Absorber Layer Prepared by RF Sputtering

Abstract

The effects of selenization pressure on the structural, optical and electrical properties of the CIGS thin films prepared by RF magnetron sputtering using a single quaternary target were investigated. At selenization pressures lower than atmospheric pressure, CIGS thin films formed non-stoichiometric compounds due to deficiencies of Se vapor. In contrast, when selenization process was conducted at above atmospheric pressure, the residence time of Se vapor inside the tube increased so that the Se element could be incorporated within vacant sites of the CIGS structure, resulting in the formation of stoichiometric CIGS thin films. High quality CIGS thin films could be obtained when the selenization process was performed at pressures greater than atmospheric and 550°C.