DataVXJournal of Materials ResearchPaper
journal article·1998-10

Cadmium-telluride—Material for thin film solar cells

Dieter Bonnet, Peter Meyers

Journal of Materials Research· Volume 13· Issue 10
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Source abstract

Abstract

Due to its basic optical, electronic, and chemical properties, CdTe can become the base material for high-efficiency, low-cost thin film solar cells using robust, high-throughput manufacturing techniques. CdTe films suited for photovoltaic energy conversion have been produced by nine different processes. Usingn-type CdS as a window-partner, solar cells of up to 16% efficiency have been made in the laboratory. Presently five industrial enterprises are striving to master low cost production processes and integrated modules have been delivered in sizes up to 60 × 120 cm2, showing efficiencies up to 9%. Stability, health, and environmental issues will not limit the commercial potential of the final product. The technology shows high promise for achieving cost levels of $0.5/Wpat 15% efficiency. In order to achieve this goal, scientists will have to develop a more detailed understanding of defect chemistry and device operation of cells, and engineers will have to develop methods for high-throughput manufacturing.
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Research context

Electronic materials

OpenAlex topics: Chalcogenide Semiconductor Thin Films · Quantum Dots Synthesis And Properties · Copper-based nanomaterials and applications

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

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