CHEMICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION (CVD) AND PHYSICAL VAPOUR DEPOSITION (PVD) TECHNIQUES: ADVANCES IN THIN FILM SOLAR CELLS

Abiodun Eyitayo ADEOYE; Oyetunde Adeoye Adeage; Kingsley Ukoba

doi:10.4314/njt.v43i3.10

Authors

A. E. Adeoye Department of Physics and SLT, First Technical University, Ibadan, Nigeria
O. A. Adeage Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, First Technical University, Ibadan, Nigeria
K. Ukoba Department of Mechanical Engineering Science, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4314/njt.v43i3.10

Keywords:

Thin-film solar cells,, silicon solar cell., Sputtering, Chemical vapor deposition (CVD), atomic layer deposition (ALD

Abstract

Thin film solar cells are gaining popularity as an affordable, efficient, and flexible substitute for traditional silicon solar cells . This success is closely tied to the deposition techniques used to fabricate their layers. This review explores and analyzes the advances in the major deposition techniques for solar cell applications, offering insights into their underlying principles, associated advantages, drawbacks, and suitability for diverse materials and device architectures. The two primary deposition for thin film solar cells are PVD and CVD. In PVC materials are physically ejecting from a target, and depositing it onto a substrate. While, CVD entails the reaction of gases or vapour precursors to creating film on a substrate. The ability to achieve high purity, control over film properties, scalability, and compatibility with flexible substrates are notable advantages. However, challenges such as high costs and complexity can impact the commercial viability of certain techniques. Recent advancements in the technology of thin film deposition for solar cells include the discovery of novel materials with enhanced light absorption and electronic charge transport capabilities, emerging deposition processes such as pulsed laser deposition, and atomic layer deposition scalable and low-cost processes like roll-to-roll processing, and integration with other technologies like perovskite solar cells and tandem devices. Understanding these techniques and staying informed about recent advancements and future directions empowers researchers and engineers to innovate and create improved thin film solar cells, contributing significantly to a more sustainable future through enhanced solar energy harvesting technologies.

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