Understanding and optimizing the performance of chalcopyrite thin film solar cells

Angus A. Rockett

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

Abstract

Chalcopyrite-structure (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)(S,Se) 2 alloys (ACIGSS) exhibit a range of exotic behaviors but result in very good photovoltaics. This talk reviews current understanding of the device operation, and prospects for large scale energy generation by devices based on ACIGSS. The surface science of ACIGSS is described and implications drawn for photovoltaics based on scanning probe measurements, photoelectron spectroscopy, and more. Cathodoluminescence imaging around grain boundaries showing surface recombination effects, and transmission electron microscopy results are also described. The implications of these and other results for the operation of devices are drawn by direct comparison with data on the operation of devices and modeling based on fundamental materials properties. Finally the talk reviews prospects for further improvements, production of multijunction devices, and how the prospects for chalcopyrite devices compare with the potential for devices produced from CdTe, crystalline Si, organic materials, and nanoparticles.

Original languageEnglish (US)
JournalACS National Meeting Book of Abstracts
StatePublished - 2011
Externally publishedYes
Event242nd ACS National Meeting and Exposition - Denver, CO, United States
Duration: Aug 28 2011Sep 1 2011

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemistry
  • General Chemical Engineering

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