Search Results (76)

Commercial electricity is increasingly being generated by renewable energy sources, and the photovoltaic conversion of sunlight is the fastest-growing renewable source. In addition to its rapid growth, solar electricity generation has seen very dramatic reductions in cost, as well as continuing increases in its conversion efficiency and installation lifetime. The growth between 2014 and 2024 in the record cell-level performance of four commercial technologies based on Si, CdTe, CuInGaSe₂, and perovskites is compared with each other, with the highest achieved by GaAs, which is primarily used in space applications. Si, CdTe, and CuInGaSe₂ have each narrowed the gap with their ideal efficiencies by about 5%, whereas perovskites, starting from a much lower base, have improved by closer to 20%, and GaAs, already much closer to its ideal value, has advanced by only a modest additional amount. Other important comparisons such as costs, stability, and environmental impact are not addressed here. Full article

Multi-messenger astronomy and time-domain astronomy are strongly linked even if they do not have the same objectives. Multi-messenger astronomy is an astrophysical observation approach born by the simultaneous, even if casual, detection of a few events discovered up to now. In contrast, time-domain astronomy is a recent technological trend that aims to make observations to explore the sky not with imaging, astrometry, photometry or spectroscopy but through the fast dynamic behavior of celestial objects. Time-domain astronomy aims to detect events on a temporal scale between seconds and nanoseconds. In this paper, a time-domain infrared fast detector for ground-based telescopes is proposed. This instrument can be useful for multi-messenger observations, and it is able to detect fast astronomical signals in the order of 1 ns. It is based on HgCdTe photoconductors, but the InAsSb photovoltaic detector has also been tested. The detection system designed to detect fast mid-infrared bursts includes trigger modules, an off-line noise-canceling strategy, and a classifier of the transients. Classification is derived from the analysis of fast instabilities in particle circular accelerators. This paper aims to be a preliminary feasibility study. Full article

Thin-film solar cells (TFSCs) represent a promising frontier in renewable energy technologies due to their potential for cost reduction, material efficiency, and adaptability. This literature review examines the key materials and advancements that make up TFSC technologies, with a focus on Cu(In,Ga)Se₂ (CIGS), cadmium telluride (CdTe), and Cu₂ZnSnS₄ (CZTS) and its sulfo-selenide counterpart Cu₂ZnSn(S,Se)₄ (CZTSSe). Each material’s unique properties—including tuneable bandgaps, high absorption coefficients, and low-cost scalability—make them viable candidates for a wide range of applications, from building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) to portable energy solutions. This review explores recent progress in the enhancement of power conversion efficiency (PCE), particularly through bandgap engineering, alkali metal doping, and interface optimization. Key innovations such as silver (Ag) alloying in CIGS, selenium (Se) alloying in CdTe, and sulfur (S) to Se ratio optimization in CZTSSe have driven PCE improvements and expanded the range of practical uses. Additionally, the adaptability of TFSCs for roll-to-roll manufacturing on flexible substrates has further cemented their role in advancing renewable energy adoption. Challenges remain, including environmental concerns, but ongoing research addresses these limitations, paving the way for TFSCs to become a crucial technology for transitioning to sustainable energy systems. Full article

Flexibility, light weight, and mechanical robustness are the key advantages of flexible photovoltaic (PV) modules, making them highly versatile for sustainable energy solutions. Unlike traditional rigid PV modules, their flexible nature makes them incredibly versatile for harnessing energy in places where doing so was once impossible. They have a wide range of applications due to their flexibility and moldability, making it possible to conform these modules to surfaces like curved rooftops and other irregular structures. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review of all the materials used in flexible PV modules with a focus on their role in sustainability. We thoroughly discuss the active-layer materials for crystalline silicon (c-Si)-based solar cells (SC) and thin-film solar cells such as cadmium telluride (CdTe), as well as copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS), amorphous thin-film silicon (a-Si), perovskite and organic solar cells. Various properties, such as the optical, barrier, thermal, and mechanical properties of different substrate materials, are reviewed. Transport layers and conductive electrode materials are discussed with a focus on emerging trends and contributions to sustainable PV technology. Various fabrication techniques involved in making flexible PV modules, along with advantages, disadvantages, and future trends, are highlighted in the paper. The commercialization of flexible PV is also discussed, which is a crucial milestone in advancing and adapting new technologies in the PV industry with a focus on contributing toward sustainability. Full article

The high summer temperatures of PV (photovoltaic) glass curtain walls lead to reduced power generation performance of PV modules and increased indoor temperatures. To address this issue, this study constructed a test platform for planted photovoltaic glass curtain walls to investigate the effect of plants on their power generation performance. The study’s results indicate the following: (1) reducing the average surface temperature of the surface temperature measurement instrument for the photovoltaic glass curtain wall by 13.6 °C can increase its average power generation capacity by 76 w, demonstrating its power generation performance; (2) plant cultivation influences the micro-environmental temperature on the surface temperature of the photovoltaic glass curtain wall, resulting in a decrease in average micro-environmental temperature by 3.2 °C and average surface temperature by 10.1 °C; (3) compared to traditional PV glass curtain walls, the planted PV glass curtain wall increases cumulative PV power generation output by 21.5 kWh over 15 days and average daily power generation output by 1.4 kWh. Furthermore, during sunny weather with high temperatures, the PV power generation output of the planted PV glass curtain wall is significantly enhanced. Full article

This study investigates the incorporation of thin-film photovoltaic (TFPV) technologies in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) and their contribution to sustainable architecture. The research focuses on three key TFPV materials: amorphous silicon (a-Si), cadmium telluride (CdTe), and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), examining their composition, efficiency, and BIPV applications. Recent advancements have yielded impressive results, with CdTe and CIGS achieving laboratory efficiencies of 22.10% and 23.35%, respectively. The study also explores the implementation of building energy management systems (BEMS) for optimizing energy use in BIPV-equipped buildings. Financial analysis indicates that despite 10.00–30.00% higher initial costs compared to conventional materials, BIPV systems can generate 50–150 kWh/m² annually, with simple payback periods of 5–15 years. The research emphasizes the role of government incentives and innovative financing in promoting BIPV adoption. As BIPV technology progresses, it offers a promising solution for transforming buildings from energy consumers to producers, significantly contributing to sustainable urban development and climate change mitigation. Full article

The characterisation of photovoltaic modules requires a specialised laboratory that guarantees precise control of irradiance and its spectrum and control of the module temperature during testing. As an alternative, characteristic parameters can be extracted from the measurements of the current-voltage characteristics (I-V curves) carried out under outdoor conditions. This paper presents the results of the two commercial thin-film photovoltaic modules’ characterisation. The first analysed device was a cadmium telluride (CdTe) photovoltaic module fabricated on glass, while the second was the flexible copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) PV module. The main parameters of the PV modules were extracted based on the series of I-V curve measurements under real operating conditions in Poland with the use of the capacitor-based I-V tracer. Solar radiation together with the modules’ temperature were registered simultaneously with the I-V characterisation. Two approaches were proposed to estimate the main PV parameters at standard test conditions as output power, short circuit current or open circuit voltage. The difference in results of power for both approaches was below 1.5%. Energy, computed using the Osterwald model, was compared with the experimental measurements. The best results of absolute relative error (ARE) were found around 0.5% for both technologies. The lowest value of root mean squared error (RMSE) was 1.3% in terms of CdTe technology and 3.1% for CIGS. Full article

Colloidal cadmium telluride (CdTe) nanoplatelets (NPLs) are promising materials for optoelectronic applications, such as photovoltaics and light-emitting diodes, due to their unique optical and electronic properties. However, controlling their growth, thickness, and stoichiometry remains challenging. This study explores the effect of synthesis temperature on the structural, optical, and stoichiometric properties of CdTe NPLs. CdTe NPLs were synthesized at temperatures of 170 °C, 180 °C, 190 °C, and 200 °C using colloidal methods. The resulting NPLs were characterized by UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) to assess their morphology, structure, and elemental composition. The results showed that the synthesis temperature significantly affected the NPL’s morphology and stoichiometry. Optimal stoichiometry was achieved at 180 °C and 190 °C, with the crystal structure transitioning from zinc blende at lower temperatures to wurtzite at higher temperatures. Optical properties, including luminescence intensity and emission peaks, also varied with temperature. The synthesis temperature is an important parameter in controlling the structural and optical properties of CdTe NPLs. The optimal conditions for obtaining NPLs with the best characteristics were identified at 190 °C, presenting important findings for further optimization of CdTe NPL synthesis for optoelectronic applications. Full article

The research referred to in this study examines the morphological, structural, and optical characteristics of kesterite (Cu_1−xAg_x)₂ZnSnS₄ (CAZTS) thin films, which are produced using a process known as thermal evaporation (TE). The study’s main goal was to determine how different Ag contents affect the characteristics of CAZTS systems. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy were used to confirm the crystal structure of the CAZTS thin films. Using a mathematical model of spectroscopic ellipsometry, the refractive index (n) represented the real part of the complex thin films, the extinction coefficient (k) portrayed the imaginary part, and the energy bandgap of the fabricated thin films was calculated. The energy bandgap is a crucial parameter for solar cell applications, as it determines the wavelength of light that the material can absorb. The energy bandgap was found to decrease from 1.74 eV to 1.55 eV with the increasing Ag content. The ITO/n-CdS/p-CAZTS/Mo heterojunction was well constructed, and the primary photovoltaic characteristics of the n-CdS/p-CAZTS junctions were examined for use in solar cells. Different Ag contents of the CAZTS layers were used to determine the dark and illumination (current–voltage) characteristics of the heterojunctions. The study’s findings collectively point to CAZTS thin layers as potential absorber materials for solar cell applications. Full article

This paper presents the results of research on conductive layers dedicated to flexible photovoltaic cells based on semiconductors integrated with a textile substrate. The presented work is part of a broader project aimed at producing flexible solar cells based on the CdTe semiconductor component and manufactured directly on textiles. The research focuses on the selection of textile substrates and contact materials, as well as the methods of their application. This study compares three types of fabrics (basalt, glass, and silicone fibers) and three metals (copper, molybdenum, and silver), evaluating their mechanical and electrical properties. During the experiments, flexible metallic layers with a thickness ranging from 160 to 415 nm were obtained. Preliminary experiments indicated that metallic layers deposited directly on textiles do not provide adequate conductivity, reaching the levels of several hundred Ω/sq and necessitating the introduction of intermediate layers, such as screen-printed graphite. The results show that molybdenum layers on basalt fabrics exhibit the lowest increase in resistance after dynamic bending tests. The obtained relative resistance changes in Mo layers varied from 50% to as low as 5% after a complete set of 200 bending cycles. This article also discusses current challenges and future research directions in the field of textile-integrated photovoltaics, emphasizing the importance of further technological development to improve the energy efficiency and durability of such solutions. Full article

In the dynamic field of photovoltaic technology, the pursuit of efficiency and sustainability has led to continuous novelty, shaping the landscape of solar energy solutions. One of the key elements affecting the efficiency of photovoltaic cells of II^nd and III^rd generation is the presence of transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layers, which are key elements impacting the efficiency and durability of solar panels, especially for DSSC, CdTe, CIGS (copper indium gallium diselenide) or organic, perovskite and quantum dots. TCO with low electrical resistance, high mobility, and high transmittance in the VIS–NIR region is particularly important in DSSC, CIGS, and CdTe solar cells, working as a window and electron transporting layer. This layer must form an ohmic contact with the adjacent layers, typically the buffer layer (such as CdS or ZnS), to ensure efficient charge collection Furthermore it ensures protection against oxidation and moisture, which is especially important when transporting the active cell structure to further process steps such as lamination, which ensures the final seal. Transparent conductive oxide layers, which typically consist of materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or alternatives such as fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), serve dual purposes in photovoltaic applications. Primarily located as the topmost layer of solar cells, TCOs play a key role in transmitting sunlight while facilitating the efficient collection and transport of generated electrical charges. This complex balance between transparency and conductivity highlights the strategic importance of TCO layers in maximizing the performance and durability of photovoltaic systems. As the global demand for clean energy increases and the photovoltaic industry rapidly develops, understanding the differential contribution of TCO layers becomes particularly important in the context of using PV modules as building-integrated elements (BIPV). The use of transparent or semi-transparent modules allows the use of building glazing, including windows and skylights. In addition, considering the dominant position of the Asian market in the production of cells and modules based on silicon, the European market is intensifying work aimed at finding a competitive PV technology. In this context, thin-film, organic modules may prove competitive. For this purpose, in this work, we focused on the electrical parameters of two different thicknesses of a transparent FTO layer. First, the influence of the FTO layer thickness on the transmittance over a wide range was verified. Next, the chemical composition was determined, and key electrical parameters, including carrier mobility, resistivity, and the Hall coefficient, were determined. Full article

The demand for sustainable and cost-effective materials for photovoltaic technology has led to an increasing interest in Cu₃BiS₃ thin films as potential absorber layers. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the main physical properties, synthesis methods, and theoretical studies of Cu₃BiS₃ thin films for photovoltaic applications. The high optical absorption coefficient and band gap energy around the optimal 1.4 eV make Cu₃BiS₃ orthorhombic Wittichenite-phase a promising viable alternative to conventional thin film absorber materials such as CIGS, CZTS, and CdTe. Several synthesis techniques, including sputtering, thermal evaporation, spin coating, chemical bath deposition, and spray deposition, are discussed, highlighting their impact on film quality and photovoltaic performance. Density Functional Theory studies offer insights into the electronic structure and optical properties of Cu₃BiS₃, aiding in the understanding of its potential for photovoltaic applications. Additionally, theoretical modeling of Cu3BiS3-based photovoltaic cells suggests promising efficiencies, although experimental challenges remain to be addressed. Overall, this review underscores the potential of CBS thin films as sustainable and cost-effective materials for future PV technology while also outlining the ongoing research efforts and remaining challenges in this field. Full article

The development of semitransparent CdS/CdTe ultrathin solar cells has been delayed as a result of the activation annealing to which the device must be subjected, which may involve problems such as the sublimation of ultrathin films and the diffusion of Cd and S at the interface. In this work, CdS/CdTe ultrathin devices on soda-lime glass/SnO₂:F/ZnO substrates were obtained by RF magnetron sputtering. CdS/CdTe ultrathin heterostructures were obtained with the following thicknesses for the CdS thin film: 70, 110, and 135 nm. The CdTe thickness film was kept constant at 620 nm. Subsequently, activation annealing with CdCl₂ was carried out at 400 °C. Surface characterization was performed by scanning electron microscopy, which indicated that the CdCl₂ annealing tripled the CdTe thin films’ grain size. Raman characterization showed that CdS thin films deposited by RF sputtering present the first, the second, and the third longitudinal optical modes, indicating the good crystallinity of the CdS thin films. The study showed that the photovoltaic properties of the CdS/CdTe ultrathin devices improved as the CdS thicknesses decreased. Full article

The main objective of this study was to determine the variation in the properties of cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin films deposited on a p-type Si substrate by the radio frequency magnetron sputtering technique at four different working powers (70 W, 80 W, 90 W, and 100 W). The substrate temperature, working pressure, and deposition time during the deposition process were kept constant at 220 °C, 0.46 Pa, and 30 min, respectively. To study the structural, morphological, and optical properties of the CdTe films grown under the mentioned experimental conditions, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and optical spectroscopy were used. For a better analysis of the films’ structural and optical properties, a group of films were deposited onto optical glass substrates under similar deposition conditions. The electrical characterisation of Ag/CdTe/Al “sandwich” structures was also performed using current–voltage characteristics in the dark at different temperatures. The electrical measurements allowed the identification of charge transport mechanisms through the structure. New relevant information released by the present study points towards 90 W RF power as the optimum for obtaining a high crystallinity of ~1 μm nanostructured thin films deposited onto p-Si and optical glass substrates with optical and electrical properties that are suitable for use as absorber layers. The obtained high-quality CdTe nanostructured thin films are perfectly suitable for use as absorbers in CdTe thin-film photovoltaic cells. Full article

Cadmium telluride (CdTe) photovoltaics is a promising and scalable technology, commanding over 90% of the thin film photovoltaics market. An appropriate window layer is crucial for high-efficiency CdTe solar cells. This study aimed to investigate a representative MgZnO (MZO) window layer and enhance device performance. We studied the properties of MZO films with different substrate temperatures and their application in CdSeTe/CdTe solar cells. Despite the high transmittance and wide band gap of MZO film, the device performance of MZO sputtered at room temperature is limited by excessive conduction band offset. Tailoring the substrate temperature for MZO sputtering helps optimize the band alignment of the MZO/CdSeTe interface, contributing to an improvement in the efficiency of CdTe solar cells. Full article