Analysis of back contact layers for flexible CdTe/CdS photovoltaic structures

Abstract

The article shows the comprehensive results of the experiments, conducted in order to select the appropriate metal layers, for back absorber contacts, to apply in flexible, thin-film photovoltaic cells based on cadmium telluride. Preliminary selection of investigated materials was made on the basis of general knowledge and physical data. Deposition techniques, as well as layer parameters, were adjusted to the specific flexible solar cell’s needs. Selected metal layers were deposited either by physical vapour deposition (PVD) or screen-printing method (SP) and tested in terms of their flexibility, thermal resistance, as well as adhesion to CdTe layer. Practical verification of selected configurations is proved by the complete construction of the device.