The Formation of Dendrites in Overtreated CdSeTe/CdTe Solar Cells

Abstract

Aggressive cadmium chloride activation conditions (up to 470°C)of a FTO/CdSeTe/CdTe device in an oxygen enviroment resulted in the formation of dendrites at the front and back of the device. The majority was at the front interface (FTO/CdSeTe). Optical Microscopy and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) were used to study their morphology and chemical composition. Optical images revealed that the dendrites grow >500µm in length causing a range of discolourations from oxidation (dark brown/pink). The XPS analysis provides has evidence for the presence of cadmium oxychlorides.