Cadmium telluride solar cells are the best prospect for low-cost photovoltaic power. This project will address the wide gap that exists between the theoretical and actual cell efficiency, interdiffusion between the active layers, elevated-resistance and questionable stability of the back contacts, complex and time-consuming methods of post-treatment of the layers, and lack of compatibility of the processes that hampers high-throughput manufacture. The main goal is to develop materials and processes for an innovative, high-throughput manufacturing process for high-performance, low-cost, photovoltaic devices for large-scale applications. The specific objectives are to close the gap between the theoretical and observed cell efficiency by developing deposition processes for improved active layers, contact materials, and dry methods of post treatment. Physical and chemical vapor deposition processes for improved alloy absorber and dopant layers will be developed to minimize interface diffusion and contact resistance. New film deposition and post-treatment methods developed will be compatible with the high-throughput process environment. Fabricated films and devices will be tested to ascertain their performance and long-term stability.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:Low-cost, photovoltaic arrays will be used in grid and distributed power systems worldwide in residential buildings, communications, parking garages, water purification and water pumping.
