Optimization of the recombination junction via spray-on-screen (SoS) deposition technique for Perovskite/Silicon and Perovskite/CIGS tandem solar cells

​The urgent need for sustainable energy is a reality considering the detrimental impacts of increased greenhouse gas emissions (GSS), like heat waves and the rapid change in seasons. To reduce the GSS, photovoltaic (PV) technology is a strong candidate! There are various ways to utilize PV technology; one way is to merge two technologies with different bandgaps to use a broader solar spectrum, i.e., produce tandem solar cells, achieving more efficient solar cells. Combining two technologies sounds exciting and easy; however, there are some problems to tackle, especially for the direct deposition of one technology onto the other, i.e., monolithic configuration (2T).

With this thesis study, to tackle these problems, a novel deposition technique (spray on screen, SoS) will be tested to deposit various types of recombination junction layers (ETL and/or HTL layers), i.e., layers between two different technologies. Later, the process will be optimized for silicon and CIGS bottom cells, where the top cell will be perovskite. The deposited layers will be analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), spectral response (UV-Vis), photoluminescence (PL), current-voltage (IV), etc. measurements.  

This research will be performed at the EnergyVille laboratories in Genk, the PV laboratory from imec, with close collaboration with imo-imomec. imo-imomec (IMEC-UHasselt) PV research teams are internationally recognized, thanks to its experts and world-class technology labs (Thin Film PV lab). The student has a background in physics, chemistry, nanomaterials, or similar and an interest in photovoltaics and experimental work.