Low cost, non-vacuum techniques for the preparation of thin/thick films for photovoltaic applications

The major objectives of solar cell research and development programmes are to improve the efficiency, stability and lifetime of photovoltaic devices. However, for terrestrial applications, the reduction in the basic cost of the cell is an important obstacle to overcome. The purpose of this study is, therefore, to review some of the more widely used, low-cost, non-vacuum deposition techniques; namely, spray pyrolysis, screen printing and electrodeposition. Each is dealt with under three main headings. These include (a) historical background and general aspects, (b) up-to-date description of the status of materials compatible with the deposition techniques and (c) structural, electrical and optical properties of deposited thin/thick films.