ZnO/Si heterojunction solar cell fabricated by atomic layer deposition and hydrothermal methods. (October 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pietruszka, R.; Witkowski, B.S.; Zielony, E.; Gwozdz, K.; Placzek-Popko, E.; Godlewski, M.
• Is Part Of: Solar energy. Volume 155(2017)
• Page Start: 1282
• Page End: 1288
• Publication Date: 2017-10
• Subjects: Solar cells -- Green energy -- Zinc oxide -- Heterojunction -- Atomic layer deposition; Solar energy -- Periodicals; Solar engines -- Periodicals; 621.47
• DOI: 10.1016/j.solener.2017.07.071
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0038-092X

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: New efficient ZnO/Si heterojunction solar cells. The highest efficiency for textured by ZnO nanorods solar cells. The highest efficiency for planar ZnO/Si solar cells. Abstract: Currently, the first generation of silicon solar cells is dominating the photovoltaic market. Silicon cells are produced by various methods, which employ either crystalline or multi-crystalline substrates. However, both these manufacturing processes are expensive and potentially harmful to the environment and health. One example of this is that the surface is given its texture in a highly corrosive water solution of nitric and hydrofluoric acid. Additionally, both the diffusion and manufacturing of p-n junction and of metal contacts are associated with very high temperatures. This prompted us in our search for cheaper and more environmental friendly technologies. In this work, we discuss the possibility of producing components of photovoltaic cells by employing atomic layer deposition and hydrothermal technologies. This does not require the use of hazardous chemicals and high temperatures. The maximum efficiency of zinc oxide/silicon solar cells is 14% and 10% for textured and planar structures, respectively. A environmentally-friendly and simple procedure is thus being proposed, which, together with its relative efficiency, makes it an attractive alternative to the present procedure.